Controversial plans to develop a rail freight in Radlett were discussed in the House of Lords yesterday.

Lord Berkeley asked if the scheme, planned for a plot of green belt land at the former Radlett Aerodrome, would be approved in the light of a written statement by the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government and the Secretary of State for Transport.

The statement, made last November 29, declares a need for a network of strategic rail freight interchanges (SRFIs) to support growth and create employment.

In the statement, Secretary of State for Transport Justine Greening said: “Over recent years, rail freight has started to play an increasingly significant role in logistics and has become an important driver of economic growth. Given the right conditions, the Government believe that rail freight could make an even stronger contribution to the country’s economic recovery...

“The Government believe that an expanded network of Strategic Rail Freight Interchanges, complemented by other freight interchanges and terminals, is needed to support longer-term development of efficient rail freight distribution logistics.

“While SRFIs operate to serve regional and cross-regional catchment areas, they are also key components in national and international networks. These networks are of strategic importance in facilitating links between UK regions and the European Union."

Lord Berkeley was told the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government has not yet reached a decision on the planning appeal, but will take account of the written statement along with all other material planning considerations.