A new charging scheme for rail freight is due to be implemented in 2014, and the Office of Rail Regulation is proposing to extend a special freight levy to new classes of cargo. The freight specific charge, which is currently only paid on coal and nuclear waste, may be extended to iron ore and biomass.
Rail freight has eliminated the need for up to 6.7 million road journeys annually, according to the consultation, and reduces CO2 emissions by 70% compared with lorries.