Freight operators that move goods to, from or across the South East are being asked for their views on the key logistical challenges they face to help shape a new transport strategy for the region.

The strategy is being developed by Transport for the South East (TfSE), a newly-established regional body representing 16 local transport authorities and five Local Enterprise Partnerships in the South East of England.

TfSE said supporting the efficient movement of goods is a critical element of its overall transport plan, which aims to grow the South East’s economy by creating a reliable, high-quality, integrated transport system.

A survey of freight and logistics operators and businesses that move goods within the TfSE area – whether by road, rail, air or sea – is therefore being carried out by consultant WSP.

The survey asks about the key issues and challenges these businesses face including congestion, journey times, connectivity, the impact of new technology as well as their views on how the transport network could develop to support their future growth plans.

Mark Valleley, technical lead for TfSE, said: “The transport network in the South East is absolutely critical to the regional and national economy – it includes the nation’s two busiest airports, a string of major ports, many of the country’s most vital motorways and trunk roads and crucial railway links to London, the rest of Britain and mainland Europe.

“We want to hear from as many freight and logistics operators and businesses that move goods as possible about their experience of the transport network in the South East, their plans for growth, views on future transport technology and the changes they want to see on our transport network.”

The survey is live until 31 March 2019 and is open to all freight and logistics operators and businesses that move goods to or through the TfSE area.

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