freight facilities grant

The Freight Facilities Grant (FFG) is a Department for Transport scheme designed to help increase the amount of freight transported by water in the UK. The grant helps to offset the capital cost of creating new freight-handling facilities and improving and investing in the rehabilitation of existing ones. It is available for freight movements by inland waterways, coastal and short-sea shipping.

Any company interested in moving freight by water or interested in investing in new water-freight handling facilities may apply for a FFG. Eligible facilities include, but are not limited to, rail sidings, handling equipment and wharves.

The amount of money that will be provided for a particular project will depend on: 1) the value of its environmental benefits and 2) the need for grant support, determined by a financial appraisal of the project comparing water to road. However, FFGs generally award a maximum of 50 percent of the eligible costs of a given project.

The Department will only provide an FFG if it is satisfied that, if the proposed facility is not provided, the freight in question would be transported by road. This decision will be based on predictions in regards to the type and quantity of goods that would move through the proposed facility.

Before making a formal application for the FFG, companies should contact the Department to obtain informal advice regarding their potential schemes.

For more information on the FFG or any other relevant government grants, please contact Sea and Water staff.