The launch last month of the government’s open consultation on Freight, Logistics and the Planning System represents a crucial opportunity to influence significant change in an area that has long been a major frustration for our sector.
Too often there has been high level focus on residential development, without due regard to the delivery needs of residents. We know that land for commercial development close to conurbations is in short supply and that there is a prevailing ‘nimbyism’ in local communities, who want online orders delivered to their homes quickly and sustainably, yet object to the idea of a warehouse close by.
UKWA has argued that fulfilment and distribution centres should be included in new development master plans, along with GP surgeries and schools, as an essential support service to communities. Educating people – both within communities and local authorities – that warehouses can be good neighbours, generating diverse employment opportunities and supporting the local economy, is part of carrying communities with us. However, this opportunity to feedback directly to government and influence planning policy reform is a big potential win for us.
We have already come a long way in driving our interests up the governmental priority list. The Future of Freight (FoF) plan was published in June 2022, hailing the sector as ‘cost-efficient, reliable, resilient, environmentally sustainable and valued by society’, and recognising that the sector has a role in supporting the growth of the economy as well as the levelling up agenda. The FoF committed the government to call for evidence to better understand the practical issues in planning and to determine the right infrastructure to support the freight and logistics industry. That call is happening right now, and it is vital that we respond.
The government is listening and, in its consultation, has once again acknowledged that the UK’s world-class freight and logistics sector is a vital pillar of the UK economy, underpinning the UK’s prosperity and wellbeing.
As such, we need to step up, be clear in our requirements, and provide the data and case studies required to make our case. UKWA has already prepared plans to involve members and stakeholders in the consultation process and ensure the voice of warehousing is heard. I would encourage as many warehousing and logistics businesses as possible to take part. Every contribution makes a difference. If you would like to be involved, whether or not you are a member, contact UKWA now and make a difference.
Clare Bottle
UKWA, CEO
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