The government's support for nationally significant infrastructure projects, including Heathrow's third runway and the Lower Thames Crossing, aligns with long-standing industry calls for action, according to Logistics UK. Speaking in Oxford following the Chancellor's speech, David Wells OBE, Chief Executive of Logistics UK, emphasized the urgency of advancing these projects to provide the economic boost the country needs.
"Today's announcement signals an intention that will be welcomed by our member businesses, but the real test will be how quickly planning decisions are made and projects are delivered," Wells stated. "If nationally important projects like the Lower Thames Crossing and Heathrow's third runway become a reality, goods can be transported more efficiently across the country, benefiting everyone. The Lower Thames Crossing is essential for improving connectivity between UK businesses and Europe, helping to reduce the country's heavy reliance on the congested Dartford Crossing. Meanwhile, Heathrow, the UK's largest port by value, serves as a critical hub linking British businesses to global markets. Expanding Heathrow with a third runway will significantly enhance trade opportunities for imports and exports."
Wells further stressed the fundamental role of logistics in economic growth:
"Logistics underpins our economy, our daily lives, and national growth. It supplies hospitals, schools, factories, and shops with everything they need, everywhere, every day. Nothing moves without logistics. Efficient logistics must be central to the government's Industrial Strategy."
However, efficiency in UK logistics has declined in recent years. The World Bank Logistics Productivity Index shows that the UK has fallen from 4th place to 19th globally over the past decade, primarily due to congestion, border friction, and inadequate infrastructure investment.
"If we make the right investments and regain our position in the top four of the World Bank index, Oxford Economics suggests this would drive significant economic growth. Logistics must have a seat on the government's Industrial Strategy Council to ensure our industry continues to fuel future economic expansion. Our sector is ready to propel the economy forward, but we need the necessary infrastructure to do so."
Logistics UK represents logistics businesses crucial to keeping the UK trading. The sector directly employs more than seven million people involved in manufacturing, selling, and transporting goods.
With challenges such as decarbonization, Brexit, technological advancements, and other disruptive changes reshaping logistics, the industry has never been more vital to the UK's economy. Logistics UK advocates for safe and efficient logistics. smooth movement of goods.
For more information:
Logistics UK
Tel: +44 01892 552360
Email: enquiry@logistics.org.uk
www.logistics.org.uk