A new Government-backed deal will see Network Rail and its platform development company, Platform4, take long-term control of the Barking Eurohub site in east London, paving the way for a potential return of regular cross-Channel rail freight.
Announced today (Wednesday 25 February), the deal is hoped to support the return of regular intermodal trains, with Network Rail planning to invest around 15 million GBP to transform the site into an international logistics hub.
If carried out successfully, the move would allow British businesses to directly import and export goods via rail to France, Germany, Italy and Spain, deepening trade links with Europe as well as reducing congestion on the roads, particularly in the South East at the Dartford Crossing and M20/M2 corridors.
With rail freight growth forming a key part of Government ambitions to reform the rail network; Great British Railways is set to have a statutory duty to promote rail freight’s use.
Rail Minister, Lord Hendy, said:This deal is a huge opportunity to reinvigorate rail freight by paving the way for the return of regular services through the Channel Tunnel.
It will boost British businesses by opening new trade links to Europe by delivering a faster and more sustainable way to transport goods to the continent and back.
This is all part of our plan to use our railways to support economic growth and jobs.
At present, a small proportion of rail freight passes through the Channel Tunnel and is limited to bulk, single customer orders – meaning that most freight between Britain and Europe travels via sea, with goods then moving on via Britain’s roads.
Network Rail’s plans would aim to establish a major international logistics hub offering a more sustainable alternative to the movement of goods – shifting freight from trucks to trains.
Jeremy Westlake, Network Rail's Chief Executive, said:Freight is fundamental to the future of our railway, and this landmark agreement highlights the central role it will play as we transition to Great British Railways.
By securing Barking Eurohub and unlocking more than £15 million of private investment, we’re putting in place the infrastructure needed to restore regular cross Channel intermodal freight services – supporting British businesses and trade, while also helping to protect our environment.
