PEOPLE are being reminded to have their say on a draft freight strategy for the region as consultation nears its end.

Anyone wishing to comment has only until Monday, January 31, to submit their views.

The need for efficient east-west connectivity across the Pennines is among issues spotlighted.

Campaigners have long been fighting for the reopening of the disused Skipton to Colne railway line, which would provide a direct route from Keighley into Lancashire.

And last year, think tank Same Skies suggested freight transport could be reintroduced to the Leeds and Liverpool Canal – which was a successful commercial route for 150 years.

The new freight and logistics strategy has been developed by Transport for the North.

Its chief executive, Martin Tugwell, said: "The freight and logistics sector is vital in helping us all get the things we need to go about our daily lives. The impact of the pandemic and the UK leaving the EU brought this into sharp focus, so now is the perfect time for the north of England to set out a strategy on how we can best support and enable the movement of goods around our region."

To take part in the consultation, visit tfn-freight.virtual-engage.com.