UK invests in strategic rail network

By committing to invest a further £200m in the Strategic Rail Network, the government wants to create core rail routes that will enable longer, faster and more regular freight trains to operate.

There are also plans to electrify the Great Western and Midland Main Lines which will all help to improve rail infrastructure.

Not only should the investment mean that freight will be able to be moved quicker in and out of terminals, but also new electric haulage should substantially reduce carbon emissions.

Alain Thauvette, chief executive of DB Schenker Rail UK, said: “The Government has delivered a package of enhancements to the rail network that will help drive further growth in rail freight. At a time when we are seeing significant growth in rail freight, helping the Government meet sustainability and economic objectives, this desire to increase rail’s modal share of UK freight haulage should be taken forward with vigour.”

The Department of Transport’s rail spending plans are outlined in the High Level Output Specification (HLOS) publication.

The new investment builds upon the £55m one made to the Strategic Rail Network in November 2011.