Fresh government plans to boost rail links across the North could unlock new capacity for freight and help the logistics sector drive economic growth, according to Logistics UK.
The business group said the launch of the Northern Powerhouse Rail proposals provides tangible evidence that ministers are backing infrastructure investment, with the potential to strengthen supply chains and improve competitiveness across the region.
Reacting to the announcement on 14 January, Logistics UK chief executive Ben Fletcher said the plans were encouraging, but stressed that logistics must be built into the next stage of development if the project is to deliver its full economic value.
“Logistics delivers economic growth across the UK – nothing moves without the work of our industry and members,” he said, adding that “every pound of investment in new infrastructure is vital if we are to improve competitiveness and enhance efficiency”.
Fletcher said the government’s proposals set out a clear path towards increasing rail capacity, something the sector has long argued is needed.
“Today’s announcement establishes a clear and deliverable plan for greater rail capacity, which is much needed,” he said.
However, he warned that the benefits must extend beyond passenger services. “We must now work to ensure that the needs of the logistics sector are front and centre when making plans to maximise the impact of this investment,” he said.
Fletcher highlighted the proposed Liverpool to Manchester line as a key opportunity to increase freight capacity across the North.
“The proposed Liverpool-Manchester railway will create additional capacity, which must benefit freight as well as passenger traffic,” he said.
He said improved rail freight would support the economy by enabling “faster, cleaner, and cheaper movement of goods”, helping to reduce costs and support growth.
Fletcher also pointed to rail’s role in cutting emissions from the logistics sector, particularly for heavy or bulky goods that are difficult to move efficiently by road.
“Rail has a key role to play in the decarbonisation of logistics, while ensuring that heavy or bulky loads can still be delivered in a timely fashion,” he said.
He said close collaboration would be essential as the project moves forward, calling for northern leaders, government and the logistics sector to work together.
“As this new scheme is developed, it is critical that northern leaders, our sector and government work closely together for the benefit of all parties,” Fletcher said.
He added that Logistics UK was ready to engage with policymakers to help ensure the plans deliver on their promise. “We stand ready to engage and help, to ensure that today’s announcement builds confidence and delivers the growth we all want,” he said.