The data on goods transported by railway in the UK reveals a declining trend over the past decade. From 2013 to 2023, the volume fell from 22.4 billion tonne-kilometers to 15.82 billion tonne-kilometers. The year-on-year variation has consistently showcased negative growth, particularly notable from 2015 to 2016 with an -11.83% drop and maintaining a downward trend with minor fluctuations thereafter.
In the last five years (2018-2023), the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) has averaged at -1.67%, reflecting a persistent decline. The forecasted data from 2024 to 2028 indicates a continued decrease in railway goods transportation, with an anticipated five-year CAGR of -1.41% and an overall reduction of 6.86% by 2028.
Future trends to watch for include:
- Impact of Brexit on trade routes and logistics efficiency.
- Environmental regulations and the shift towards more sustainable transport options.
- Technological advancements in logistics and transport management systems.
- Economic factors affecting the demand for goods transportation by railway.