The Rail Freight Group (RFG) has today (26 March 2026) published a new report, ‘Freight Forward’, highlighting the vital contribution rail freight makes to the UK economy and wider society, as well as setting out the actions needed to unlock future growth. The report explores key themes including decarbonisation, community impact, resilience and rail reform, […]
RFG is pleased to provide a response to the Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government’s proposed National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) for 2026. Moving freight by rail is a government priority, intending to achieve 75 percent rail freight growth by 2050. To meet or exceed this goal, rail freight terminals must be in optimal […]
Rail Freight Group was pleased to respond to Network Rail’s discussion document on Great British Railways’ Access and Use policy. We recognise the significant changes to the access framework which are being made under the Railways Bill 2025, and the work which is presently ongoing to design the new regime. We appreciate the consultative and […]
Introduction The rail freight sector is a thriving and growing part of UK railways, delivering over £2.5bn in economic value for the country each year. At the heart of rail freight is a network of businesses from freight train operators to ports, terminals, suppliers and end customers investing to support sustainable rail based supply chains. […]
Scotland has long led the UK in championing rail freight, from pioneering a national growth target to investing in cleaner, more capable rail infrastructure. As the country accelerates towards a net-zero future, rail freight offers a vital, low-carbon link between industry, communities and Scotland’s emerging green energy hubs. This manifesto and policy document sets out […]
Wales is home to a dynamic and strategically vital rail freight network, connecting its ports, industrial centres and rural communities with the rest of the UK. From the busy South Wales Main Line to the North Wales coast and the Cambrian corridors, rail freight keeps essential goods moving efficiently and sustainably. As major industries transition […]
In April 2025, RFG was asked by the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority to help them understand the scope of rail freight traffic in North, South and West Yorkshire. Mayors from these three areas made an agreement to collaborate under the ‘White Rose Agreement’ to work together on areas of mutual priorities, including rail. […]
Rail Freight Group (RFG) was pleased to respond to the East West Rail Non-Statutory Consultation. RFG supports the construction of this new railway as a strategic addition to the national rail network. We welcome the request by the UK Government to include provision for freight traffic and the measures outlined by the East West Rail […]
Launched at the Rail Freight Group’s Autumn Meeting and AGM in Middlesbrough, ‘Rail Freight in the North East’ takes a focused look at the region’s rail freight traffic today, the emerging opportunities and what will be needed to support growth in rail freight over the long term. The document identifies that rail freight produces 76% […]
A new report setting out the economic and environmental case for more rail freight into Greater Manchester has been published by the Mineral Products Association (MPA) and the Rail Freight Group (RFG). Published this week (1 January 2024), ‘Building Better with Rail Freight in Greater Manchester’ highlights the benefits of rail freight over road haulage […]
