GB Railfreight calls for "intelligent electrification"

GB Railfreight Managing Director John Smith called for "intelligent electrification" at the Transport Select Committee's inquiry hearing into 'Investing in the Railway' yesterday (December 1). It was a freight-focused session at which John Smith was asked to give oral evidence, having submitted written evidence to the committee.

He recognised that parts of the electric spine will be good for rail freight but called for prioritisation of certain corridors (including Birmingham to Nuneaton) to encourage the industry to invest in electric locomotives.

John Smith also called for:

• The Government to reserve capacity for rail freight
• The industry to continue to work together with Network Rail to drive efficiencies
• An integrated transport strategy with a long-term vision rather than piecemeal investments
• The Government to consider MSRS grants as a tool that could encourage the growth of rail freight.

The 'Investing in the Railway' inquiry seeks to scrutinise the impact and deliverability of Network Rail's current and future investment plans.

• For more information, see RAIL 753 on sale December 10.