The Rail Freight Group’s AGM and Autumn Members’ Meeting took place in Northampton on 12 November, with discussions centred on the new Northampton Gateway Terminal and rail operations across the central England region.
James Tierney of Maritime Logistics outlined the challenges of making short-haul rail competitive with road transport, noting the impact of rising track access charges and frozen fuel duty for road vehicles. He highlighted the significant opportunity presented by the new terminal, which has capacity for additional services and already hosts a daily train.
Benjamin Bird of Yusen Logistics shared the company’s vision for a highly automated, sustainable distribution centre currently under construction in Northampton. Rail access was a key factor in selecting the site, representing a major investment for Yusen beyond its usual portfolio.
Ben Rule of East-West Rail emphasised the importance of the line in improving connectivity between urban centres and supporting economic growth. He noted the strategic value of the railway in linking other mainlines, particularly for freight, and confirmed the company’s commitment to maintaining current freight paths while planning for future demand.
Bryan Evans of Oxfordshire County Council said the county has identified the need for a 50% increase in rail freight capacity to meet its modal shift targets, with new infrastructure and electrification central to achieving this. He highlighted that moving freight from road to rail is the first action in the council’s Freight & Logistics Strategy.
Simon Evans of Wabtec provided an update on the company’s new Rail Technology Campus, due to open next year. He outlined ongoing work to develop track and train-friendly bogies focused on total cost of ownership, as well as progress on an eight-year project to create a self-powered bogie with potential benefits for freight operators.
The final presentations focused on health and well-being. Wendy McCristal of The Mental Wealth Company discussed how businesses can help employees manage uncertainty by building psychological safety within teams. She identified key stress factors and highlighted practical steps organisations can take to better support staff.
Ben Lumley of Night Club examined the specific challenges faced by night workers, who often experience poorer social and health outcomes than daytime staff. He encouraged businesses to give greater attention to this workforce and outlined the support and guidance his organisation can provide to help improve well-being.
Following the meeting, many delegates toured Maritime’s Northampton Gateway Terminal to see first-hand how the investment will increase rail freight capacity.
RFG thanked Maritime Logistics for hosting and all speakers for their contributions to an informative and engaging event.
