Network Analysis of Freight Traffic
MDS Transmodal has recently completed a study for the Department for Transport examining freight flows and their contribution to network usage. Using the M6 corridor as a 'test-bed', we developed and tested a methodology (using the GB Freight Model) for better understanding freight flows on the strategic road network at a link-by-link level. We established current daily HGV demand between each link (junction) on the M6 together with producing a modelled assessment of traffic origins and destinations, commodities being conveyed, the domestic/international split and mean length of haul. The freight demand was subsequently compared with all vehicle traffic on the M6, enabling freight's contribution to network stress to be identified. Forecasts of HGV demand in 2015 and 2020 were also produced in a similar format. Rail freight demand and forecasts on the parallel West Coast Mainline were also produced. The results are summarised in the recent DfT publication 'Delivering a Sustainable Transport System: The Logistics Perspective' (Annex B).