4 godzin temu
Manufacturers are pressing for the original plan for a high-speed rail line reaching Leeds and Manchester to be resurrected as part of a major strategic investment in the rail network. The push comes as companies warn that current rail capacity cannot handle predicted future freight traffic levels.
A survey of 200 manufacturing companies by Make UK and Barclays Corporate Bank revealed overwhelming support for the high-speed connections. Nine in 10 manufacturers believe the original high-speed rail line should still proceed, while a similar number want greater investment in faster connections between Liverpool, Manchester, Sheffield, Hull and Newcastle.
Freight capacity concerns drive support
The research showed that companies believe the move would significantly increase passenger numbers whilst freeing up crucial capacity for rail freight on existing lines. This capacity boost is seen as essential for meeting the Government's future freight predictions.
Verity Davidge, director of policy at Make UK, said current rail capacity levels are inadequate for projected freight traffic. "It's clear that the current levels of rail capacity aren't suitable for the levels of freight traffic the Government is predicting in the future," she explained.
Multi-modal transport hubs proposed
Davidge highlighted that the additional capacity would create opportunities to invest in multi-mode hubs, improving connectivity between major ports and better integrating road and rail routes. "This would provide a valuable opportunity to invest in multi-mode hubs which would improve connectivity between our major ports and better integrate road and rail routes through the spine of the country," she said.
Lee Collinson, head of manufacturing, transport and logistics at Barclays UK Corporate Bank, emphasised the broader benefits of transport upgrades. "Upgrading and integrating our road, rail and port systems is crucial for boosting productivity, decarbonising transport and supporting long-term competitiveness," he said.
(PA/London) Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
