A report and supporting set of maps highlighting the key inland waterways suitable for freight have been published by the Department for Transport today.

The documents, published under the title The Key Inland Waterways for Freight, highlight those areas where the UK's existing network of inland waterways has the greatest potential for freight services and can fit with the needs of modern freight businesses.

Transport Minister, Jim Fitzpatrick said:

"The role of inland waterways in moving freight is already significant, primarily in the moving of construction material, agricultural products, waste and liquid bulks. We would like to see the market build on this success so that we can reduce the environmental impact of moving goods.

"In response to feedback from the market we have produced this report and supporting maps so that operators and their customers have a greater appreciation of the areas where inland waterways may help them most.

"Our aim is to promote the use of our waterways for freight transport where they provide a viable alternative to road freight. The benefit of this is reduced carbon emissions and congestion on the road."

The report shows that the areas of greatest potential are the larger waterways and river navigations linked to our major estuaries.