Experience
Recent project experience.
We have advised a wide range of public- and private-sector clients on freight and logistics issues, often on complex and high-profile schemes. These are examples of recent projects.
Projects
Eastern City Business Improvement District
As part of a programme of public realm improvements, the Eastern City BID sought to reduce delivery vehicle volumes in the most congested part of the City of London, while maintaining reliable servicing for businesses.
Polaris provided research and strategic advice on how last-mile delivery efficiencies could be implemented in practice, drawing on experience of consolidation, behavioural incentives and stakeholder engagement. The programme is now progressing, and we continue to support the BID in promoting and embedding more efficient delivery models across the district.
East West Rail
East West Rail is a new cross-country railway designed primarily for passenger services, but with significant long-term potential for freight. Ensuring that freight capability was safeguarded within a passenger-led scheme required early and informed input.
Ian Brooker acted as Freight Lead, advising on how freight could be enabled alongside passenger services and integrated into the scheme’s technical and strategic development. The route is now freight-capable, with provision for up to 30 trains per day in each direction, and initial services are operating.
Western Gateway STB
There is a major gap in rail freight terminal provision in the South West, and the Western Gateway STB sought to understand whether a new facility at Avonmouth could address that need.
Polaris advised on the feasibility of a new terminal, beginning with a long list of potential options and narrowing these through demand, technical, operational and policy assessment. A suitable site has now been identified with strong local support, and we are working with partner organisations to explore next steps.
Milton Keynes City Council
Milton Keynes, recognised as a nationally significant logistics hub, required a freight chapter for its forthcoming Local Plan that reflected both its economic role and the need to manage impacts.
Polaris advised on the key freight issues facing the city and developed a balanced policy approach, enabling the Council to reduce the impacts of freight traffic while continuing to support logistics investment and growth.
Discuss a project
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