More train freight terminals on the cards to reduce traffic

Plans are being drawn up for more freight terminals in the South West to help reduce the number of lorries on our region's roads

A train near to Dawlish, where investment work is taking place
Author: Andrew KayPublished 12th Jan 2022

The South West could get more freight terminals to help reduce the number of lorries on our roads as part of efforts to increase rail travel.

Transport bosses - across the region - are close to completing a strategy which would see a number of stops created where items could be loaded and unloaded across Devon, Somerset and Cornwall.

The Rail Peninsula Task Force - which is a network of councils in the region - says they're now working with the rail industry to ensure the plans are workable.

A report, ahead of a debate today about rail investment in Devon, says: "Regarding freight, the South West Sub National Transport Bodies have jointly commissioned a freight strategy, which is nearing completion.

"The strategy includes recommendations that support mode shift of freight to rail, including establishing a plan for a network of rail freight intermodal terminals in the South West and ensuring the rail industry allocates sufficient freight train paths on the main line and diversionary routes.

"We will continue to develop these proposals and build this into the emerging rail strategy plans for the Peninsula."

Click here to read the report and rail motion by Councillor Robert Hannaford in full click here

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