An on-line water-freight business information system is to be launched by government-backed Sea and Water, the organisation which aims to increase the number of freight loads carried by water in the UK.
Due to be launched this autumn, the system will target transport buyers – including those in the timber trade. It will give information on ports, terminals, wharves, feeder and liner services, bulk and barge operators, inland waterways and other related services.
Sea and Water chairman James McConville said: “Transport is very much on the political radar, particularly in terms of reducing road congestion and lessening the environmental impact. The challlenge we face is that water-freight is not yet perceived to be part of the solution to these problems and there is a general ignorance and negative attitude to our industry.”
As well as the on-line system, a water freight review will be published, giving detail of shortsea, coastal and inland shipping.
