We received a number of responses to our consultation on the proposal for Network Rail Infrastructure Limited (“Network Rail”) to acquire a number of freight sites from DB Schenker Rail (UK) Limited (“DBSR”). All of the responses are available here (see right).
There was strong support from many consultees for the general principle of the acquisition and it is clear that there is a desire to improve transparency on matters such as access to sites. Aspects of the proposal which attracted positive responses included:
- The potential operational benefits (particularly those associated with the creation of additional network nodal yards)
- The opportunity to create an ownership structure which could improve clarity and availability of access opportunities for freight sites
- Opportunities for investing rental income to enhance and develop freight schemes which could encourage freight growth
Aspects of the consultation which consultees sought clarification on or wished to consider or understand further included:
- Whether separation of site ownership could affect rent and haulage rates
- More detail as to the extent of and nature of the sites being respectively acquired and retained by Network Rail and DBSR
- More certainty around both the terms on which sites would be retained and / or made available to other operators (in particular in relation to “Use it or lose it”)
- The basis on which sites would be protected for freight or other railway use in the future
Having carefully considered and taken account of the responses we have decided not to proceed with the proposal as consulted on. Nevertheless, we remain keen to continue to explore ways in which it may be possible to achieve the overarching objectives identified in our consultation document. We recognise the desirability of wider industry support should there be major structural changes required to achieve this.
In the meantime, Network Rail will continue to support the development by the industry of code(s) of practice relating to freight site access/ leases, as identified in the Industry Action Plan consulted on by ORR following the findings of its Freight Sites Market Study.
Please email propertyconsultation@networkrail.co.uk with your comments.
Proposed aquisition of DB Schenker freight sites - consultation
Annex A - list of freight sites
Annex B - sample plans of multi category sites
Annex C - sample yard plan for a network nodal yard
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