A Study of the Feasibility and Potential Implementation of Metro-Based Freight Transportation in Newcastle upon Tyne

Abstract

This paper discusses the concept of using a metropolitan railway network to transport freight directly to a city centre from the surrounding businesses. Specifically we look in depth at the Tyne and Wear Metro system, situated in Newcastle upon Tyne, to determine if such a scheme would be feasible. Through research into the modes of transport available, along with a review of literature and case studies, it was found that the current method of transporting the majority of freight by road is unsustainable and damaging to both the environment and local communities. Other options for the transportation of freight have been reviewed, and results showed that a modal shift will be necessary in the near future. The system was then modelled using software provided by the Department for Transport, which demonstrated that the implementation of such a scheme would provide vast accident savings, a reduction in the number of casualties on the road, and a monetary saving as a result of the lower casualty rate. The conclusion was reached that the scheme is viable; however, further research and study are necessary before implementation.

Sustainable Vehicles-Based Alternatives in Last Mile Distribution of Urban Freight Transport: A Systematic Literature Review

“…Regarding the economic benefits, the studies proposed the reduction of energy consumption, delivery time, and traffic congestion [31,36,40], since bicycles are able to use exclusive bicycle paths and avoid imposed traffic constraints [23]. The environmental benefits have focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, air pollutants, and noise emissions, whilst the social benefits included the possible generation of jobs and an improvement in the quality of life of the population.…”

Innovative Interior Designs for Urban Freight Distribution Using Light Rail Systems

“…Cities are unique and vary from one to another, and thus, one freight system may not be suitable to all urban areas. According to [10], for the case of Tyne and Wear region, the utilisation of the Tyne and Wear metro service for freight distribution would allow for a greater usage of the light rail network.…”

“…In order for such a system to operate, a micro-consolidation centre would be developed at Palmersville, near the metro station [10]. All goods from surrounding businesses would be loaded onto the modified metro train.…”

“…The boxes would have detachable shelving that can be rearranged as needed, to suit different freight sizes. Using shelving allows different goods to be stored in one box while being easily differentiated, acting similar to a bento box [10]. The height of the box is just under that of the average human height, to allow the user to see ahead when manoeuvring the box.…”

“…For the case of Newcastle upon Tyne, the interested reader is referred to [10]. It is evident that a modal shift towards more sustainable transport methods is needed.…”