The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has published its Adaptation Reporting Power report (ARP4), outlining the climate change risks and adaptation strategies of key infrastructure bodies in the UK.
The report, mandated by the Climate Change Act 2008, provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges faced by organisations such as Network Rail, National Highways, and High Speed 1. It also examines the climate adaptation efforts of railway passenger and freight operating companies.
Key findings from the report include:
- Monitoring and Accountability: ORR continues to monitor the safety and operational performance of regulated bodies, as well as their climate adaptation strategies. The regulator holds these organisations accountable for the effective management of climate change risks.
- Network Rail Oversight: ORR is actively reviewing Network Rail’s plans and funding for weather resilience, overseeing the implementation of its Weather Resilience Climate Change Adaptation (WRCCA) plans, and monitoring progress on recommendations following the Carmont derailment.
- National Highways Scrutiny: ORR is advising the government on the next road investment strategy (RIS) and ensuring that National Highways has robust plans in place to address the impact of adverse weather conditions on its infrastructure.
By publishing this report, ORR aims to support the UK’s efforts to build a more resilient and sustainable transport network. The regulator will continue to work with industry stakeholders to address the challenges posed by climate change and ensure the safety and reliability of rail and road services.
