Tag Archives: transport

Connectivity, Transport, Travel

Final call to shape the future of transport in South East Wales – consultation closes May 19

Cardiff Capital Region (CCR) is issuing a final call for residents, businesses and stakeholders to help shape the future of transport in South East Wales, as the public consultation on its draft Regional Transport Plan (RTP) enters its final weeks. The consultation will close on May 19, 2025.

Since launching in March, the consultation has invited people across the Region – from Monmouthshire to Bridgend, the Valleys to the coast – to share their views on the draft Plan, which sets out a long-term vision for a more efficient, sustainable and inclusive transport network.

The draft RTP sets out Cardiff Capital Region’s goal to build a Competitive, Connected, and Resilient Region, underpinned by an affordable, low-carbon transport system that improves quality of life, reduces emissions and supports economic opportunity.

The Plan includes objectives for better access to jobs and services, cleaner air, improved safety, stronger links between communities, and better transport connections between South East Wales, the rest of the UK and beyond.

Residents, community groups, businesses and organisations are encouraged to review the draft Plan and have their say by visiting: https://regionaltransportplanccr.wales/.  Responses from the public will help shape the future of transport in the Region.

Cllr Andrew Morgan OBE, Chair of CCR’s Regional Transport Sub-Committee, and Leader of Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council, said:

“We’ve made strong progress through Metro investment and low-emission initiatives, but now we need people across South East Wales to tell us what matters most to them – and time is running out. This is your chance to influence what comes next.”

Logistics, News

Europa Road in Dublin cracks the code for UK-Ireland exports

Five years on from Brexit, Ireland remains one of the UK’s largest trading partners according to the UK Government. For two economies so deeply entwined, UK and Ireland businesses have responded to the challenging trading landscape to achieve solid numbers.

According to the Department for Business & Trade, total UK exports to Ireland amounted to £49.8 billion in the four quarters to the end of Q3 2024. While this is decrease of nine per cent on the previous year, it still makes Ireland the UK’s 6th largest trading partner, contributing significant sums to our economy.

Recognising the opportunities to better the trading relationship, one of European road freight expert Europa Worldwide Group has invested over £1m in its infrastructure in Ireland. Establishing a dedicated, local Europa Road team based at Dublin Airport Central, Europa’s team has the skills and expertise needed by UK exporters to Ireland who are negotiating the new trading landscape.

Elliott Watts, Dublin Branch Manager, commented: “Brexit completely changed the way the Republic of Ireland trades with the UK and, importantly, how freight moves through the UK to mainland Europe.  For us, it’s been our key focus to ensure we provide a range of solutions that our customers could rely on. Businesses can’t gamble their reputation on delayed shipments and hidden fees, so our daily services that connects to 42 partner hubs across Europe means they don’t have to.”

In a further step to provide frictionless trade services between Ireland and Great Britain, the company made its flagship service, Europa Flow, available to Irish exporters from June last year. Using a unique combination of DDP, postponed VAT accounting and anticipated declarations, it offers reduced paperwork, lower costs and faster transit times.

Elliott added: “Irish and British exporters are still experiencing the challenges of Brexit but as exports increase, times are changing. Operators had to get inventive when restrictions were brought into place, which will continue as the requirements tighten. It was vital we adapted to implement business processes that enabled exporters to continue to access their customer markets in the UK and Ireland, the EU27 and beyond post Brexit.”

Despite a challenging trading landscape, the Dublin team of eight has expanded its customer base, more than doubled its shipments and increased total bookings by over 400 per cent since opening its doors at Dublin Airport Central.

With plans of moving to a larger office space to accommodate an expanding team by the end of the year, the team’s growth is evidence for the value of these new services and the positive trading relationship between the Republic of Ireland and the UK.

Continuing to tackle local exporting challenges head on, the team has expanded its dedicated linehaul daily service from Dublin to its Dartford hub, guaranteeing a direct and seamless transport process for all EU shipments.

Elliott continued: “At Europa we always strive to lead the way with our services and offer something that our competition doesn’t. So, by popular demand we launched our direct linehaul daily service which has transformed British and Irish exporting. Previously, local sailings would all go on a Friday so if customers missed this, they had to wait another week. With our direct linehaul, we provide a daily service which means exporters can transport goods seamlessly to the UK and Europe.

“We’re celebrating our second anniversary this year and I’m proud to see our team continues to grow and our services are consistently supporting local exporters. Not only does our Europa Flow service provide a reliable pre-Brexit solution, but we also provide a Money Back Guarantee which ensures refunds for consignments not delivered on time.”

The Irish Government has shared that  over one third of Irish exports go to the UK.

Elliott added: “Many of our Irish customers work in the agricultural industry, so we move significant volumes of tractor parts. We also support customers from a range of other industries – from packaging to engineering, and everything in between!

“Our services have ensured that time-sensitive shipments are guaranteed to arrive at their destination on time and without additional hidden fees. We take care of the customs ourselves and with teams set up in Ireland and the UK, our customers can relax knowing we have it in hand.”

Adrian Redmile, Branch and Sales Director at Europa Road, comments: “Against a challenging backdrop, the Dublin team continues to go from strength to strength. This team is one of the newest additions to our branch network, but they have responded well to the changing trading landscape, unlocking new opportunities and delivering better services. Only two years into their journey, I’m optimistic for the future of this team and look forward to supporting their growth in the coming years.”

Europa Road provides market leading European road freight services. Its network of 16 sites across the UK and Ireland, which includes the company’s sites at Dublin Airport Central and in Belfast city centre, manage the shipments of goods into Dartford, from where freight connects with daily, direct services to its continental hubs.

 

Business, Transport

Cardiff Capital Region begins public consultation on shaping transport provision in South East Wales

Consultation on the draft Regional Transport Plan (RTP) is open until 19th May, aimed at unlocking opportunities, connecting people and businesses and supporting the creation of jobs in the Region.

Cardiff Capital Region (CCR), the regional body made up of the ten Local Authorities in South East Wales, is consulting with the public and wider stakeholders on its draft Regional Transport Plan (RTP). From Monmouthshire to Bridgend, the Valleys to the coast, residents and visitors across CCR are invited to review the Plan, and its vision, objectives and policies.

CCR’s goal is to build a Competitive, Connected, and Resilient Region: the vision for the RTP is to establish an efficient, affordable, low-carbon transport network that enhances quality of life, fosters shared prosperity, and supports a carbon-neutral Region where walking and cycling are favoured for shorter journeys and includes decarbonisation of the transport network.

Now, the public is invited to have its say in consultation by visiting: https://regionaltransportplanccr.wales/.  Responses from the public will help shape the future of transport in the Region.

The consultation asks residents, businesses, and stakeholders to share their views through an online survey, webinar and a series of ‘pop-up’ events across the Region.

Cllr Andrew Morgan OBE, Chair of CCR’s Regional Transport Sub-Committee and the Leader of Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council, said:

“CCR has already invested millions in Metro improvements and led the way on low-emission transport.

“But transport isn’t just about getting from A to B, it’s about unlocking opportunities, connecting businesses, creating jobs, and making our communities stronger and fairer.

“Our Regional Transport Plan will help us deliver a greener, smarter, and more inclusive transport network that supports economic growth and tackles climate challenge. We need to hear from those who use, or want to use, regional transport, so we encourage people to join in the conversation”.

Business, EVs and Automotive News, Tech, Technology, Transport, Transport Tech

FleetEV launch new salary sacrifice platform

Leading electric vehicle (EV) specialist, FleetEV, has launched an in-house technology platform specifically designed to support salary sacrifice schemes for SMEs and the public sector.

Offering a flexible, tax-efficient way for workforces to make the switch, FleetEV specialises in everything electric including comprehensive leasing and fleet solutions tailored to diverse client needs.

From a financial perspective, salary sacrifice schemes provide tax efficiencies for all involved, as employers can take advantage of National Insurance (NI) savings, while employees benefit from reduced income tax and NI contributions.

One of the standout features of FleetEV’s new platform is its ability to provide real-time, accurate quotes using tax code and salary information, rather than relying on estimates, ensuring employees know exactly what they are committing to, eliminating any financial uncertainty. Employers, too, can trust the integrity of the platform, knowing that there will be no unexpected financial discrepancies.

Additionally, the platform can be ‘white labelled’, allowing businesses to brand the platform as their own. This not only builds trust among employees but allows easy integration into each company’s existing HR or benefits infrastructure.

The technology also automates key processes, minimising the administrative burden on employers and allowing them to focus on their core operations.

Jarrad Morris, CEO and Founder at FleetEV, said: “Our new salary sacrifice platform is intuitive, efficient, and designed with simplicity in mind, making it easy for businesses to adopt and manage.

“In contrast to generic leasing solutions, our proprietary platform offers a seamless, fully managed experience tailored to the unique needs of salary sacrifice. By removing upfront costs and incorporating essentials like insurance, maintenance, and breakdown cover, it simplifies and enhances the transition to electric vehicles for any business.

“By adopting our platform, businesses can streamline their benefits management while simultaneously supporting their sustainability goals.”

 

FleetEV’s salary sacrifice platform is highly flexible and can be adapted to suit a business’ needs as they grow. For more information visit www.fleetev.com

Business, EVs and Automotive News, Transport

FleetEV welcomes two new board members

Cardiff-based FleetEV has welcomed Caro Wild and Hannah Williams in advisory positions.

FleetEV is an electric vehicle (EV) services provider that focuses on helping organisations transition to electric vehicles through comprehensive leasing, salary sacrifice, and fleet solutions tailored to diverse client needs.

Hannah Williams, Chief Executive of Alacrity Foundation, has joined the business in a non-executive role to develop strategy and governance through their extended period of growth. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that will support FleetEV as they enter the new year and target £1bn in contracts.

On her appointment, Hannah said: “I’m so pleased to have joined FleetEV at such an exciting point in their journey. The growth they have seen this year is incredible, and projections for 2025 are just as impressive.

“Working alongside founder Jarrad Morris has been a delight, as his passion is infectious and is visible through the entire team. I can’t wait to see what this role has in store and what the future holds for FleetEV.”

Climate change specialist Caro Wild has also joined the electric vehicle (EV) provider, from his previous role in Cardiff Council, where he held the post of Cabinet Member for Transport and Climate Change. He will advise FleetEV on policy and political engagement as they cement themselves as market leaders in Wales, leading the EV charge.

He said: “Moving to electric vehicles is the quickest way we as a society can reduce our emissions, and Wales and the UK are already lagging behind other countries. FleetEV is at the forefront of the market and their services are going to help speed this transition up across the country.

“Being a Cardiff-based company who works with local suppliers and businesses to grow the local green economy, their ambitious plans to grow globally will put Wales at the forefront of the green transition, ensuring we help lead the charge against climate change.”

Jarrad Morris, CEO and Founder of FleetEV, said: “We’re so pleased to welcome both Hannah and Caro to the team. Their individual experience will undoubtedly enhance our strategy going into 2025 as we look to further expand and support our customers across the public and private sectors.”

FleetEV offers comprehensive leasing, salary sacrifice and fleet solutions tailored to diverse client needs across public and private sectors. For more information visit www.FleetEV.com

Acquisitions & Partnerships, Environment, EVs and Automotive News, Sustainability, Transport

FleetEV provides top bakery with electric vehicle

Two local businesses have teamed up to help improve sustainability in Cardiff – whilst delivering artisan breads and pastries at the same time.

Bakery and boulangerie Ground, which opened its flagship Pontcanna site three years ago, now has a new addition on the menu – an electric vehicle (EV) provided by fellow city business FleetEV.

Mindful of racking up the miles with deliveries across South Wales and beyond, the bakery turned to leading electric specialist FleetEV, based at The Maltings, for an environmentally friendly van, just in time to mark Wales Climate Week (November 11-16).

FleetEV Founder and CEO Jarrad Morris said: “We are thrilled to provide an electric vehicle which perfectly suits Ground’s busy everyday business needs whilst reducing the impact on our environment.

“Our team has been super busy this Wales Climate Week helping businesses and individuals to make the switch to electric. It really is great to see so many people excited about creating a greener, cleaner and more sustainable future for all.”

Amy Hudson, Ground Manager, said: “Being able to make sustainable choices has always been of importance to us at Ground. When the options are available to choose solutions for our small business that better protect our environment, we do so.

“We committed from the start to always delivering to our shops and wholesale customers in electric vehicles and have worked hard to expand with this in mind. It’s exciting to now grow our electric fleet, allowing us to sustainably service even more customers with fresh baked goods each day across Cardiff and beyond.”

Ground is owned by Pembrokeshire-born chef Tom Simmons, the youngest contestant to reach the quarter finals of MasterChef: The Professionals in 2011, and his partner Lois. In addition to Pontcanna, Ground has coffee houses in Canton, Penarth and Cowbridge plus a unit at its production base in Sully.

FleetEV offers comprehensive leasing, salary sacrifice and fleet solutions tailored to diverse client needs across public and private sectors. For more information visit www.FleetEV.com

News

Booming haulage business on the road to net zero following huge investment

A BOOMING haulage business is on the road to net zero.

Farrall’s Group – which employs more than 110 workers at its sites in Deeside, Ashton Hayes, Sandycroft, Telford and Newport – successfully lowered its carbon footprint with support from the Carbon Reduction Feasibility Fund.

The Fund is delivered by Antur Cymru Enterprise with the backing of Pathway to Carbon Zero Ltd and Litegreen Ltd, in collaboration with Flintshire County Council.

Led by Managing Director Matthew Farrall, the company had already made strides in sustainability, installing 1,400 solar panels at its Deeside HQ – generating half a million kilowatts a year – introducing electric forklift trucks, and looking to introduce Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) into its 70+ fleet of vehicles, which are washed using a rainwater harvesting system.

Matthew said via the Fund, consultants helped them to collate information and explore how best to continue implementing eco-efficient methods and renewable energy alternatives long-term.

“The input of Pathway to Carbon Zero and Litegreen has been very beneficial,” he said.

“Their findings reinforced the changes we have made in the last 12 months, as well as contributing to our Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) report and giving us the confidence we were on the right path, identifying other areas we can be more energy efficient.”

Matthew added: “As a business we are focused on our carbon footprint and responsibility as an organisation which covers many thousands of miles every year and produces greenhouse gas emissions from its vehicles, warehouse and other operations.

“We will continue to improve and work in partnership with the sectors we serve, from food production and manufacturing to construction, aggregates, retail and more.”

Approaching its 70th anniversary, Farrall’s Group has a BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) truck on order, due to arrive in the Spring, and the next phase of their green plans includes electric battery storage.

“That will be a big project but the one which has had the most impact is the installation of the solar system at Deeside, significantly decreasing our dependence on non-renewable energy sources and basically taking us off-grid when the sun is shining,” said Matthew.

“As a result, when the truck arrives it will be powered by the solar energy generated, and our target is for at least 50% of our vehicles to be carbon neutral by 2040 – that’s what we are aiming for.”

He added: “We want to be a leader in sustainable logistics and are committed to implementing solutions that contribute to that, through investment and innovation.”

Aimed at organisations in Flintshire, the Carbon Reduction Feasibility Fund received £297,294 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, with grants available for businesses to access specialist advice on how to become a more sustainable organisation, as well as offering guidance on equipment, buildings, energy use and systems and methods that will reduce their carbon footprint and help increase profitability.

Fund Manager Rowan Jones said: “Farrall’s Group is one of the most innovative and forward-thinking companies in the region, especially when it comes to the environment and climate change.

“We are pleased the Fund has helped them to build on the good work which has already taken place and look forward continuing the partnership in the future.”

Business, Transport, Transport Tech

Veezu returns to Whitchurch Heath Cricket Club as club sponsor

VEEZU, south Wales’ leading private hire platform, is returning as the club sponsor for Whitchurch Heath Cricket Club’s upcoming season.

 

Whitchurch Heath has four Senior league sides and a thriving youth section that runs teams at ages under 9, 11, 13 and 15. They are dedicated to playing competitive cricket in a welcoming, inclusive and social atmosphere in the north Cardiff suburb.

 

This marks Veezu’s third year of sponsoring the club through its ‘Funded by Veezu’ programme, an initiative in which organisations, charities and sports teams can apply for funding and grants, set up to improve the communities in which Veezu operates.

 

The sponsorship will go on to fund day-to-day expenses such as ground maintenance and equipment.

 

Peter Bryon, Whitchurch Heath Chair, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Veezu once again and are very grateful for their ongoing support and commitment to WHCC. This sponsorship is invaluable to us as we can invest in the club’s grounds and facilities to improve the overall experience for our members.”

 

Sally Krouma, Hyperlocal Marketing Manager at Veezu, said: “We are very excited to be continuing this partnership and supporting Whitchurch Heath in their upcoming season. Funded by Veezu is all about reaching out to our local communities and supporting them in any way we can. It’s wonderful to see another great organisation benefit from the programme, and we look forward to seeing this partnership develop even further.”

Business, Transport, Transport Tech

Veezu headlines Solihull Music Festival as official ride partner

Veezu, the Midlands’ leading private hire operator, is the headline sponsor and official ride partner for the Solihull Music Festival through its new partnership with Solihull BID.

 

The Solihull Business Improvement District (Solihull BID) is a not-for-profit organisation, with a voluntary board of directors to represent the town’s businesses. The group works to improve and promote the town centre of Solihull. For the past 13 years, the work of Solihull BID has resulted in a reduction in crime, increase in footfall and the introduction of a thriving events calendar, such as the Solihull Music Festival.

 

The partnership arose from a mutual agreement between Veezu and Solihull BID to address the need to make travel easier for businesses and locals in and around Solihull.

 

Through its partnership, Veezu is sponsoring six events with Solihull BID. Marking its first event, Veezu will be the official ride partner of Solihull Music Festival on 20-23 June.

 

Veezu will be providing safe, reliable and convenient travel for festivalgoers for the whole weekend, with £5 off rides for event visitors and Solihull BID VIP Membership card holders. Rides can be booked through the Veezu app, available here.

 

Melanie Palmer, Chief Executive of Solihull BID, said: “We are delighted to have the established brand of Veezu join us as our official ride partner for our town centre events.

 

“We know how many people enjoy visiting Solihull for the calendar of iconic events and now we are able to offer tailored discounts for those choosing to arrive in style with a Veezu taxi. Great partnership working makes Solihull the destination of choice for fun and relaxation without the worry of or restrictions of driving. Now, bring on the sunshine.”

 

Letitia Young, Hyperlocal Marketing Manager for Veezu, said: “We are very excited to be the official ride partner for Solihull BID and the Solihull Music Festival. This partnership further marks our commitment toward strengthening our ties with the local community in Solihull. We are especially proud to be playing a part in making travel easier for Solihull locals, and ensuring that more people can enjoy the fantastic events taking place in the town. Keep an eye out for us at future Solihull BID events.”

Business News, Driving, Driving Tech, EVs and Automotive News, Transport, Transport Tech, Travel, UK

Veezu teams up with Seatfrog to end the anxiety with trains and taxis

The travel duo join forces to upgrade passengers’ journeys from home to destination.

 

Veezu, the UK’s largest and fastest-growing private hire taxi technology platform, and Seatfrog, the rail ticketing app revolutionising train travel are excited to announce a strategic partnership to end the anxiety with trains and taxis.

 

From today, Seatfrog’s cutting-edge technology will be connected to Veezu’s extensive vehicle network, taking passengers from their home straight to the best seats on trains and then directly into a Veezu car on arrival at the best price available.

 

The partnership will eliminate the headache many passengers face across the UK, waiting in endless taxi queues or missing taxis because their train is running late, by connecting train journeys and taxi network data for the first time. Passengers’ rides will automatically connect to their rail departure and arrival times, so they can step out of the train station straight into their waiting Veezu ride.

 

Veezu passengers will also be able to easily upgrade their train tickets to first class on the way to the station, from as little as £13 – with Seatfrog’s unique app features, where Brits have saved over £80 million on first class upgrades.

 

Nathan Bowles, CEO of Veezu, commented, “Partnering with Seatfrog is an exciting step towards redefining travel in key UK cities. Together, we’re going to make it easier than ever for passengers to enjoy an integrated journey and sit in the best seats on the train.”

 

Seatfrog’s CEO, Iain Griffin, added, “Journeys should be easy, but in the UK, we’re constantly reminded that we’re mere mortals every time we jump off a train to catch a taxi – long queues, no vehicles available, surge pricing, stress. No one has seamlessly connected taxis to train journeys, changing that is long overdue.”

 

For more information about the collaboration between Veezu and Seatfrog visit https://www.veezu.co.uk/partners/seatfrog  and www.seatfrog.com/veezu.