Network Rail is advancing rail freight capabilities with a new project in West London.
- A new aggregates yard is being established at Thorney Mill by Ashville Aggregates.
- The project will utilise previously unused tracks to enhance freight transportation.
- Improvements include more efficient freight train manoeuvres and reduced emissions.
- This initiative supports Network Rail’s broader strategy to boost UK freight capacity.
Network Rail has taken a significant step forward by supporting the expansion of a new aggregates yard for Ashville Aggregates in Thorney Mill, West Drayton. This project is part of a larger effort to bolster rail freight transport capabilities in the region.
The new yard will be built next to an existing aggregate base and will make use of an old, unused rail siding. This development is crucial for the Ashville Group as it will enable the transfer of more loads onto freight trains. Currently, the absence of a dedicated siding requires freight hauls to navigate a section of the branch line, which complicates logistics.
This enhancement will improve the infrastructure’s reliability for freight operators, providing the necessary maintenance access and reducing journey times. By relocating the sidings, the project allows freight trains to complete a ‘run round’ on site, thus reducing both the distance travelled and associated carbon emissions. Previously, trains had to travel further on the branch line to execute such manoeuvres.
The project increases the track layout capacity, accommodating 26 freight wagons compared to the previous 24. Network Rail has been active in repairing the branch line servicing the Ashville Group yard and has offered logistical planning support to ensure smooth implementation of this project.
Network Rail’s endeavours are aligned with its national ambition to increase rail freight by 8% by 2029 and are part of their Western route strategy extending from Paddington to Penzance. In conjunction with UK Government targets to achieve a 75% growth in rail freight by 2050, these projects are significant milestones in sustainable transport initiatives.
Jess Lippett, Network Rail’s Senior Regional Freight Manager for Wales and the Western region, underscored the importance of rail freight as a “vital part of our infrastructure, providing a fast, green, and efficient mode of transporting goods.” She highlighted that the new sidings at Thorney Mill would not only expand Ashville Group’s operations but also open opportunities for transporting diverse material types across the UK.
The initiative is set to increase freight capacity by 7% in the region over the next five years, shifting heavy goods transport from roads to rail, thereby contributing to reduced carbon footprints. Lippett noted that “just one freight train can remove up to 76 lorries from the roads, each tonne of material carried by rail reducing carbon emissions by 75% compared to road transport.”
According to Daniel Ashville Louisy, owner of Ashville Aggregates, “We see rail playing a huge part in the future of construction and many other sectors.” He emphasised that rail is central to their supply operations, enhancing their independence and efficiency. Furthermore, plans to incorporate solar power at the new yard reflect a commitment to sustainability and forward-thinking business practices.
The new freight yard project marks a significant advance in enhancing rail freight capacities and sustainability initiatives in West London.
