Rail freight prioritises sustainable track access charges

Rail freight operators have prioritised ensuring that track access charges remain sustainable, following the appointment of DB Cargo chief Hans-Georg Werner as chairman of the Rail Delivery Group’s Freight Board.

“Every year the rail freight industry carries goods worth over £30 billion, making it vital to the competitiveness of the UK economy and an intrinsic part of our everyday lives,” Werner said.

The board’s strategic priorities for 2018 would include ensuring sustainable track access charges for CP6 and beyond, the development of HS2 and strategic freight capacity on the UK network.

Werner became CEO of DB Cargo UK in October 2016 and has led the company through its biggest organisation restructure since privatisation.

“Over recent years we have seen significant change in the sector and its markets and we must be prepared for more. By working together we will ensure that we remain a sustainable industry that attracts the right level of investment to ensure we can continue to deliver for our customers and the UK economy,” he said.