Decision heralds planning policy vacuum that will harm the economy and
environment

6th August 2010

Sustainable transport campaigners today denounced the Coalition Government's rejection of the second planning application for a rail freight interchange in Kent 1.

Despite the Government's stated commitment to making the transport sector greener and more sustainable 2, the decision is a step in the wrong direction for developing the low carbon economy.

Philippa Edmunds, manager of transport coalition Freight on Rail, said:

"Rail freight has an important role to play in the green economy, but the sector needs clarity in planning. Without approval for terminals, which must be situated to meet market requirements, freight cannot be transferred to rail. The result will be a missed opportunity to cut road congestion, emissions, and the risk to drivers of road accidents."

The abolition of regional spatial strategies finalised on 6th July - the day before the Radlett interchange refusal 3 - has created a planning vacuum, as there is currently neither national nor regional spatial planning policy.

Only local plans remain, which make strategic sustainable decision-making difficult if there is local opposition.

 

Notes to editors:

1. The application for Kent International Gateway SRFI was rejected by the Secretary of State on 05 August 2010

2. Coalition: Our Programme for Government Transport section P31 20 May 2010

3. The application for Radlett Strategic Rail Freight Interchange (SRFI) was rejected by the Secretary of State on 7th July even though the Planning Inspector at the public Inquiry recommended giving planning permission