International Gateway Study for the South West

 

The South West’s ports and airports play a vital role in supporting the regional economy and have the potential to unlock significant further growth.

The International Gateway Study, covering both the Peninsula Transport and Western Gateway STB areas, examines the current and future performance of the South West’s ports and airports.

Context

Ports and airports are adapting to:

  • Changes in global supply chains following the pandemic

  • The impacts of the UK’s exit from the European Union

  • The urgent need to decarbonise transport

Strengthening these global connections could increase the flow of both people and goods. Beyond their transport role, ports and airports are also major economic hubs, generating jobs, investment, and revenue.

Key Trends Identified

  • Opportunities to diversify into new sectors such as offshore renewable energy, and support emerging activities in the space and aviation industries

  • Improved connections between gateways and supply chains could open new freight markets

  • Better road and rail access to ports and airports would strengthen overall connectivity

Recommendations

The study sets out a comprehensive set of proposals to strengthen the peninsula’s global connections. Peninsula Transport will use this analysis to inform the regional transport strategy, with priorities including:

  • Supporting the development of an Aviation and Aeronautical Engineering Demonstration Zone

  • Facilitating closer links between ports, airports, tourism, and manufacturing to promote services, explore ticketing options, and drive growth in new industries such as offshore renewables

  • Providing clear, sector-specific information on Freeports

  • Making the case for the use and reinstatement of rail links to ports and airports

  • Working with DfT and the CAA to ensure consistency in data collection

  • Exploring the use of Mobile Network Data to better understand freight movements

  • Collaborating with regional bodies, businesses, and partners on alternative fuel production, storage, and distribution

 Find out more through the highlights report or the full study.