Application of GB Freight Model to forecast freight volumes: Oxford to Cambridge Expressway

Client: Highways England

Date: 2016
Determine the strategic case for freight for investment in new east-west expressway links within the North London – Oxford – Milton Keynes – Bedford – Cambridge corridor.

The Question

How will the Oxford to Cambridge Expressway impact freight movement, costs and logistics?

The Solution

MDST completed a freight forecasting and modelling study which involved:
  • Using the GB Freight Model (GBFM) to analyse 2014 baseline freight movements;
  • Forecasting 2041 freight demand using Department for Transport growth projections;
  • Using the GBFM to simulate HGV route changes and assessing shifts in freight traffic due to the Expressway;
  • Evaluating the impact of the expressway on the rail mode and routing by port;
  • Assessing cost savings and environmental impacts related to freight movements.

Outcome

Provided data-driven insights to support Highway England’s strategic transport planning and investment decisions on the potential expressway.