MICK Gentleman has announced a new transport initiative to move freight from Canberra by rail.

The ACT Government and the NSW Government have signed up to a two year trial whereby scrap metal will be transported to Sydney on rail via an arrangement between the Rail Infrastructure Corporation (now John Holland Rail), working with Access Recycling and Espee Railroad Services (a subsidiary of the Australian Railway Historical Society (ACT Division) Inc).

The new initiative will see a significant reduction of heavy vehicles using road networks to distribute freight.

“By using the existing freight rail infrastructure we can improve road safety and reduce vehicle emissions,” Mick said.

“The new arrangement will permit the use of a defined portion of rail infrastructure in the ACT as an operational railway for the conveyance of passenger and freight trains.

“Most freight to and from the ACT is road based and our rail network is underutilised. The ACT Freight Strategy, due for release later this year, recognises the importance of retaining rail infrastructure for future potential use.”