UK DfT highlights SRFI policy for rail freight

Date: 30/11/2011

The UK Department for Transport (DfT) has outlined its policy for infrastructure concerning Strategic Rail Freight Interchange (SRFI) with the publication of a new guidance document for the industry.

SRFIs are large multi-purpose rail freight interchange and distribution centres linked to existing rail and trunk road infrastructure with container handling facilities.

According to the documentation, the main objectives of SRFIs are to reduce road congestion, allowing goods to be delivered quickly and efficiently by rail.

In doing so, the government also intends to lower carbon emissions from the transport system as part of its plans for a low carbon economy.

To this end, the policy document highlights how Whitehall intends to support and encourage the development of a "robust infrastructure network" of interchanges.

SRFIs will be set up to serve regional and cross-regional areas, while also linking up to form a national network across England with international access.

The policy document states: "While it is for the industry to identify potential SRFI sites to meet commercial logistics requirements ... the government supports the development of a national network of SRFIs and will seek to facilitate the achievement of this objective."

Posted by Mary Treen