The Freight Transport Association (FTA) has welcomed the announcement of new rates for 'lorry sensitive miles' by the Strategic Rail Authority (SRA).

The rates are based on the number of lorry miles that are saved by freight travelling by rail rather than road. However, the SRA has based the new rates on the levels of congestion that would be experienced on the equivalent road journey.

FTA policy director James Hookham said: 'This is a significant shift of emphasis for grant funding by the SRA. By giving congested roads the highest values they are recognising that rail freight's principal appeal is it ability to avoid congested parts of the road network,' he continued, 'the government must make an early announcement about the restoration of grant funding so the new rates can actually be used. Meanwhile, our member should continue to submit grant applications to the SRA.' The FTA remains concerned that the value of the grant rate has not kept pace with inflation in haulage costs since 1996.