(6 min read)
In this edition of our Transport Newsletter, we highlight key global and UK developments shaping the sector. Across the GCC, major investment continues in large‑scale infrastructure projects designed to modernise and future‑proof public transport networks, while the shipping industry faces increased legal and political attention on the emerging “Shadow Fleet” of vessels. In the UK, progress on Northern Powerhouse Rail is beginning to take shape, a new Road Safety Strategy aims to enhance safety for all road users, and Scotland is harnessing the economic potential of its ports through strategic infrastructure improvements.
In this edition:
Northern Powerhouse Rail
As part of the Northern Growth Strategy, the Government has confirmed plans to take forward Northern Powerhouse Rail in three stages, with £1.1 billion made available for planning and design work. We explore how the $45bn funding cap might be spent and what the key to rapid delivery of the programme will be.
Find out the details of the Government's plan here >
New UK Road Safety Strategy
The UK Government has announced details of ifs first new Road Safety Strategy in over a decade. Our transport and logistic clients will be particularly interested in the new vehicle technology and the road safety investigation branch.
Find out the details here >
Swift acceleration for GCC rail expansion
The rail sector in the GCC is experiencing rapid growth, marked by major projects such as the high-speed rail RFP between Qididya and Riyadh, a Saudi-Qatar treaty for a cross-border rail link, and the imminent launch of Etihad Rail’s passenger services in the UAE. Projects span various models, including PPPs (e.g., Hafeet Rail), government-funded schemes (Saudi Landbridge), and joint ventures (Etihad Rail with Deutsche Bahn). Urban transit is also expanding, with Dubai and Riyadh extending metro lines and new projects in Abu Dhabi and Jeddah. This surge creates significant opportunities for private sector involvement. As cities face congestion and environmental challenges, investment in public and heavy rail is increasingly vital for sustainable passenger and freight movement across the region.
Read more about the GCC's rail expansion >
Legal implications for shadow fleet enforcement
US Seizures of MARINERA and M SOPHIA: Legal Implications for Shadow Fleet Enforcement
The US-led seizures of the oil tankers “MARINERA” (formerly “BELLA 1”) and “M SOPHIA” marked a significant escalation in the enforcement of international sanctions against Russia, Iran, and Venezuela. Conducted with UK military support and authorised under US judicial warrants, these operations reflect a shift from monitoring and designation to direct operational enforcement against the so-called “shadow fleet” - a network of tankers employing opaque ownership structures, false flags, and deceptive shipping practices to evade sanctions and facilitate the export of sanctioned oil. This shift constitutes a real-time stress test of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), particularly regarding flag State jurisdiction and the treatment of stateless vessels on the high seas.
Read our analysis on the impact >
Scotland's ports: Unlocking economic power through action
A new wave of opportunity awaits Scotland if policy can match ambition
Carrie Armstrong (Real Estate Partner and member of our Ports & Terminals team) writes in The Herald that Scotland’s ports can drive clean economic growth, but urgent policy reform and public investment are needed to unlock their full potential.
Read more about this new opportunity >
