4. Participation in FQPs
Before formally establishing an FQP, RTPs and local authorities should first consider the main issues it might address and, from these, the various interests that should be invited to participate. To be effective, the FQP needs to include all key stakeholders, including the Freight Transport Association ( FTA) and the Road Haulage Association ( RHA). However, representatives from the whole supply chain, including end users, such as retailers, should also be involved if at all possible.
If numbers become a problem, smaller-core working groups focusing on specific objectives might be created. The range of interests represented in the FQP should reflect the issues to be considered but might include:
- Road hauliers/logistics companies/shippers
- Retail
- Manufacturing
- Service providers, in particular the rapidly growing parcels sector
- Rail operators and Network Rail
- Local airport and port authorities
In addition, Chambers of Commerce, the Police, environmental groups, and local community groups can each play an important role within FQPs.