(5 min read)
In July's edition of the Transport Newsletter, we explore how transport remains at the heart of the UK’s growth agenda, but delivery, funding and governance remain key challenges. At UKREiiF, discussions focused on unlocking investment, progressing rail reform and turning infrastructure pipelines into tangible projects. The English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act 2026 signals a major shift towards regional transport decision-making, with greater powers for Strategic Authorities and wider bus franchising opportunities. We also explore why intellectual property is becoming a critical asset for transport businesses, helping protect innovation and create long-term value. Also, with new trade union access rights arriving in October 2026, transport employers should prepare for increased union engagement while maintaining operational resilience, safety and security. Finally, global conflicts such as in Iran continue to pose problems for transport businesses which we explore how to mitigate with practical legal steps.
In this edition:
UK REIIF 2026: What next for transport investors and policymakers?
UK REIIF highlights transport’s growth role, but rail reform, funding uncertainty and evolving delivery models continue to challenge project delivery.
Explore the key challenges shaping the future of UK transport projects
English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act 2026: What the new transport powers mean in practice
Both Europe and the UK are imposing a ‘carbon border adjustment mechanism’, or CBAM – effectively a carbon price on imported products that are manufactured in a carbon-intensive way outside of the EU/UK. This affects steel and cement: key raw materials in any transport infrastructure project. Read our Insight for the key actions you need to take.
Read our insight to understand what the new transport powers mean in practice
Why you should be thinking about your IP portfolio
Strong IP portfolios help transport businesses protect innovation, strengthen brands, reduce risk and unlock value through licensing and commercial growth.
Discover how your IP portfolio can unlock business value
Transport employers should plan for increased employee relations risk
New trade union access rights from October 2026 will increase union engagement across transport, requiring employers to balance access with safety and operational resilience.
Understand how the new union access rights could affect your organisation
Considerations for transport businesses in light of the Iran conflict
For transport businesses, disruption in the Strait of Hormuz is a reminder of how quickly geopolitical events can affect global supply chains, freight movements and operating costs. This article considers the legal and commercial implications of the ongoing Iran conflict, including contractual rights, force majeure and practical steps businesses can take to manage risk as disruption continues.
Understand the implications of the Iran conflict for transport businesses
