The UK government’s new £72.5bn infrastructure strategy signals a major commitment to improving national transport systems, including a focus on better road networks and support for EV charging and data-led mobility. For logistics providers like Relay, this is welcome news, and long overdue.
Road infrastructure plays a vital role in the success of the UK logistics sector. While rail, air, and sea all have their place, the final leg of most deliveries still depends on road transport. Whether it’s a last-mile delivery to a data centre, the timed installation of sensitive medical equipment, or the repositioning of high-value assets across the country, logistics firms rely on a network that is not only connected but well-maintained.
Poor road surfaces, congestion, and inconsistent regional investment create a knock-on effect across supply chains. Delays impact client schedules. Vibrations from uneven roads can damage sensitive or calibrated equipment. And detours caused by closures or unreliable routing increase operational costs and carbon output.
As a specialist in the transport and timed installation of high value equipment, Relay sees the real world impact of road quality every day. Well maintained roads reduce journey times, prevent unnecessary handling risks, and allow us to deliver precisely when and where our clients need us.
The government’s infrastructure plan includes support for data-led mobility and enhanced EV infrastructure – areas that align with the industry’s need to modernise and become more sustainable. But it is the basic quality and accessibility of the road network that underpins success. Without reliable physical infrastructure, even the most advanced logistics technologies will fall short.
The hope now is that this funding translates into genuine, regionally balanced improvements, and not just strategic reports and consultations. Logistics keeps the UK running. That’s not just a slogan, it’s a reality for hospitals, data centres, manufacturers, and countless other organisations that depend on the safe, timely movement of goods.
At Relay, we’ll be watching closely as this strategy develops. Because every smooth delivery starts with a smooth road.