TfSE is supporting local transport authorities to deepen their understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the rail-based logistics industry, after our recent study highlighted the shortage of intermodal rail freight interchanges across the region.

Without additional and expanded rail freight interchanges, particularly those for the intermodal sector, the ability to achieve the government’s 75% rail growth target could be severely constrained.

The Intermodal Rail Freight Interchange Study approved by our Partnership Board this month, explored the future potential for intermodal rail freight in the South East, what would be required to realise this growth, and where potential sites could be located.

We have worked with local authorities and industry stakeholders to identify opportunities, understand barriers, and shape recommendations for the future.

The study identified several key issues:

• A lack of intermodal rail freight interchanges in the region and scarcity of suitable locations for new developments.
• The continued reliance on road haulage if this is not addressed.
• The significant economic, environmental and employment benefits that can be realised by a move from road to rail.
• The difficulty local transport authorities face in dedicating resources to this issue.

To address these challenges, the study recommends:

• Closer collaboration between local authority planning, transport and economic development officers to engage with potential site owners, national strategic bodies and other stakeholders.
• Greater knowledge and understanding of the freight sector through participation in TfSE’s Freight Awareness Programme.
• A stakeholder roundtable to gauge interest and appetite for tackling the regional shortfall in rail freight facilities.
• Advocacy by TfSE for government recognition of rail freight interchanges as key components of regional infrastructure planning, alongside access to essential data.