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The Freight Transport Association (FTA) has welcomed the launch of the public consultation regarding the Wales Freight Strategy (WFS). It was announced by the Deputy First Minister and Minister for Transport  Ieuan Wyn Jones at the Welsh Assembly Government, following the unveiling of a four-year plan to improve Wales's transport system.

Bill Simons, chairman of the FTA's Welsh Freight Council, says: "The announcement confirms that freight movement is not an afterthought, but a fundamental element of transport planning for Wales. "In an age when we are all looking to receive goods as quickly and as economically as possible, by whatever mode of delivery, a high-level document of this nature that concentrates on how we achieve those aims, with due concern for our social and environmental responsibilities, is both important and overdue."

The WFS, set to end on 4 January 2008, says: "The Wales Freight Strategy seeks to integrate all modes, particularly between road and rail, and links to sea ports, which would be essential to support any increase in short sea shipping." Part of the strategy is aimed specifically at road transport and highlights such needs as "Provide parking  for road freight transport (locations, facilities required and pricing)" and "Consider specific parking for drivers' rest area".

The strategy was developed in conjunction with the Wales Freight Group, a group created by the Welsh Assembly Government, which comprises the key stakeholders within the freight industry in Wales.