A Freight and Logistics Strategy for the North of England which showcased the importance of sector as a facilitator for economic growth has been launched by Transport for the North.

Analysis shows that by 2050 the sector could be worth over £30bn to the North’s economy and employ over half a million people. 

Martin Tugwell, Chief Executive, Transport for the North, said:

“I am delighted to see the Freight and Logistics Strategy published. The Freight and Logistics sector is vital in helping us all get the things we need to go about our daily lives, as we were reminded during the lockdowns. Our Freight and Logistics Strategy, which covers road, rail and waterway freight, reveals the data that drives the sector and identifies the opportunities for decarbonising the sector. It is an important piece of work not just for those who work in the sector, but for the general public and business community."

Lucy Hudson, Principal Policy Officer Freight and Logistics, Transport for the North, said:

“Freight is no longer the Cinderella of transport. We have made our big entrance to the ball. This comprehensive strategy sets out a suite of freight and logistics objectives for the North of England, a detailed description of the network and pinch points, additional TfN activity on decarbonisation, strategic rail, freight analysis and TfN’s future travel scenarios and how these activities relate and contribute to TfN’s freight and logistics activity. Through the recommendations agreed by the TfN Board, we have a clear steer on how to make progress and I look forward to working with partners, the Department for Transport, the railways and businesses across the sector.”

Councillor Louise Gittins, Vice-Chair of Transport for the North and Leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council, said:

“The Freight and Logistics Strategy sets out clear objectives to accelerate investment that would best support the strengthening of the North's economy. Crucially, it also seeks to set out how Transport for the North can support the freight and logistics sector to decarbonise."