OVER a third of businesses don’t believe that the UK’s road and rail networks are meeting their needs, according to new research by the British Chambers of Commerce.

The results, based on a survey of over 1,100 business across the UK, found that 39% of firms don’t believe that UK’s rail network meets their needs in accessing new and existing customers, suppliers and employers, compared to 34% that do.

The survey also found that over a third of businesses (36%) believe that the UK rail network is less reliable than five years ago, compared to only 17% that say it’s more reliable.

Relating to the UK’s road network, the survey found that 68% of businesses regard the UK road network as less reliable compared to five years ago, with only 11% believing it is more reliable. While 47% of businesses believe the road network meets their needs, nearly as many believe it doesn’t (41%).

In the 30 days before the survey was conducted, 70% of respondents had experienced road traffic congestion, 57% motorway traffic congestion, and 49% road and rail maintenance.

As a result of travel delays in the previous month, 52% of businesses reported increased direct travel costs, 33% had been restricted in their access to existing or potential customers, and 30% had increased costs of products/services.

The results underline the importance of a focus on the fundamentals of the UK’s business environment. If Brexit continues to distract the government, the necessary resources and investment will be diverted from the important issues in the domestic agenda that need attention, including the UK’s physical and digital infrastructure.

Denise Rossiter, Chief Executive of Essex Chambers of Commerce said:

“Businesses rely on the road and rail networks to connect with customers, suppliers and staff. It’s concerning that many businesses believe reliability has worsened in recent years, particularly on the road network. Capacity constraints, congestion and delays in the development of new routes have left businesses frustrated as we have seen in Essex with major roads such as the A12 and A120 which are vital arteries for the county and often the subject of delays and closures.

“Transport delays can cost businesses time, money and potential clients. For the UK to succeed post-Brexit, we need to fix the fundamentals here at home. Investing in physical and digital infrastructure is vital to the prosperity and competitiveness of the UK in the future.

“Businesses also continue to report poor broadband and mobile coverage as an issue that impedes their operations. To improve mobile coverage across the UK, the British Chambers has launched its No More Not Spots campaign and we would encourage Essex businesses and residents to register their mobile not spots with us to help identify gaps in coverage. For the UK to be a thriving and modern digital economy, we must start with getting the basics right.”