Rail Forum is delighted to launch our General Election policy document, ‘Unleashing the potential of rail: an enabler of economic prosperity’. As a value-focused and member-driven trade association representing almost 400 organisations and supporting the resilience and growth of the UK rail supply chain, we are proud to present this document which outlines five key policy changes that would drive significant benefits for customers, taxpayers and the rail supply chain.
Today’s railway supports economic growth, employment and skills, connects people and places across Britain, and helps to deliver Net Zero targets. However, Britain’s railway has considerable potential to deliver better and more efficiently. The next government has the opportunity to unleash the potential of rail, enhancing its reputation domestically and internationally to achieve transport and wider policy objectives.
In brief, we need an ambitious vision for the industry, underpinned by a long-term investment strategy. Second, a commitment to a suite of integrated national and local plans that support devolved decision making, whilst maintaining a whole network perspective. Third, we want to see rapid progress on the rail reform agenda and fourth, faster implementation of digital technologies. Finally, we need a new approach to procurement, underpinned by the new Procurement Act, that provides fairer opportunities for UK SME’s, focuses on results and provides greater social value for the UK.
Elaine Clark, CEO at Rail Forum said: “Rail Forum wants to see rail positioned at the heart of the public transport and freight system, as an economic enabler helping to drive UK growth and supporting delivery of our net zero commitments. Our message to the next government is simple, work with us to unleash the potential of rail.”
Download our General Election policy document to see the subsequent benefits and outcomes of implementing the five key policy changes.
