UK targets at least 40% rail freight growth by 2040

The value of goods moved by rail freight is almost GBP 34 billion (approx. EUR 40 billion) a year, and the 2040 target is meant to raise it by about GBP 15 billion (EUR 17.5 billion); Great British Railways is to receive by law strategic oversight of network access and two duties to promote freight.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has presented her vision for rail freight under Great British Railways: by 2040 volumes in the country are to grow by at least 40%, a first milestone on the way to growth of at least 75% by 2050. The value of goods moved by rail freight is currently almost GBP 34 billion (approx. EUR 40 billion) a year and the target is meant to add about GBP 15 billion (EUR 17.5 billion); Network Rail estimates that rail freight of construction materials could rise by 45%. According to the report, the Railways Bill that creates GBR is entering committee stage in the House of Lords and is to give GBR strategic oversight of network access and two duties to promote freight growth; a dedicated board member will be responsible for freight (LOK Report, 16 Sep 2026; second source: GOV.UK, 8 Sep 2026).