On behalf of Transport for the South East (TfSE), sub-national transport body for the South East of England, City Science explored the viability of transferring some freight movements from the road to water within or to and from the TfSE area. This study contributes to the implementation of broader regional transport strategies (e.g. TfSE Freight Strategy Action Plan and TfSE Transport Vision), supporting long-term strategic goals and promoting sustainable economic growth in the area.
Overview
On behalf of Transport for the South East (TfSE), sub-national transport body for the South East of England, City Science explored the viability of transferring some road freight movements to waterborne modes. This study sought to evaluate how expanding the use of waterborne freight in the area could contribute to the following key outcomes:
We applied a structured, data-driven methodology that combined policy analysis, robust evidence gathering, stakeholder engagement, and a viability assessment, providing TfSE with a comprehensive understanding of the opportunities and barriers for expanding waterborne freight.
Scope
The primary geographic focus of the study was the TfSE area, encompassing key ports, inland waterways, and freight corridors within the region. Recognising the interconnected nature of freight logistics, the study also included a high-level analysis of cross-boundary freight flows and infrastructure, examining potential synergies and interactions with neighbouring regions. Two key waterborne freight modes were considered:
- Short sea shipping (SSS): Maritime traffic that moves cargo along a coast without having to cross an ocean.
- Inland waterway (IWW): Freight transport using navigable rivers and canals.
Our Response
Policy & Literature Review: We conducted an in-depth review of national, regional, and local policies, alongside a broad range of academic and industry literature, to establish a clear understanding of the current political and strategic context. Additionally, we outlined best practice case studies that demonstrated how integrating waterborne freight into logistics frameworks could deliver significant benefits.
Baseline Evidence Report: We developed a robust evidence base, examining the socio-economic context and existing waterborne infrastructure in the TfSE and adjacent areas. This analysis included:
- Socio-economic Factors: An analysis of total population distribution across the area, deprivation levels and a high-level market sector analysis.
- Infrastructure & Geographic Characteristics Review: A detailed mapping of ports, navigable waterways, and supporting logistics infrastructure (e.g. warehouses).
- Freight Movement Analysis: A quantitative review of current freight flows and quantities, focusing on heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), SSS, and IWW.
- Future Flows: To support long-term strategic planning, we calculated future HGV traffic forecasts, which strengthened the potential case for modal shift to waterborne freight.
This evidence base supported the identification of initial data-led challenges (e.g. port specialisation limiting SSS flexibility) and opportunities (e.g. a high volume of bulk goods and established port access).
Data Gap Analysis: A significant constraint identified during the study was the limited availability of detailed and reliable freight data. In repose, we conducted a detailed data gap analysis that:
- Outlined key data requirements.
- Identified existing data sources and their limitations.
- Provided actionable recommendations for improving data granularity, enabling better future analysis.
Stakeholder Engagement: To complement our data-driven analysis, we facilitated two stakeholder workshops, engaging a diverse group of participants, including local authorities, logistics operators, port managers, and suppliers. These workshops served two primary purposes:
- Exploring Opportunities & Challenges: The first workshop focused on gathering qualitative insights into key regional opportunities and barriers for waterborne freight.
- Validating Emerging Findings: The second workshop presented preliminary findings and sought stakeholder input on potential place-based opportunities and recommendations.
Opportunities & Challenges: Our structured approach enabled the identification and evaluation of key opportunities and challenges. Each factor was subjected to a high-level viability and impact assessment, with an overarching rating applied. For each challenge, we proposed potential mitigation strategies, along with supporting rationale. This assessment directly informed the final recommendations by prioritising key areas of intervention and specific local opportunities for further action.
Outcome
The findings from all stages of the study were compiled into a comprehensive final report, providing a detailed analysis of current conditions, future potential, and actionable next steps. Key recommendations were formulated to guide future implementation, with clear assignment of responsibilities to relevant stakeholder groups. Our evidence-based approach and stakeholder engagement ensured broad support and buy-in for the study. While challenges remain—such as cost competitiveness and the need for stronger policy backing—the study demonstrated that waterborne freight could support reducing road congestion and supporting a greener, more efficient transport network through local site-specific opportunities.