A Highland timber plant is being asked to set an example by becoming the first firm to make use of a newly built train track.
West Fraser, formerly Norbord, now has the capacity to create its own rail-freight terminal at its mill.
This is due to trackwork and signalling now in place for the new Inverness Airport Railway Station.
‘Rail freight makes for safer roads’
The Highlands & Islands Green Party believes freight “shouldn’t really be on the road”.
They claim it causes frustration and dangerous driving.
But now the infrastructure is in place they believe moving it by rail instead of lorry should be considered.
Anne Thomas, communications coordinator, said: “It would reduce the Brexit-induced haulage driver shortage, which is also leading to a lack of bus drivers.
“We hope West Fraser and other businesses will, at last, realise the benefit of being situated so close to the railway.”
Throwing down the gauntlet
Rail development group Friends of the Far North Line is challenging West Fraser to take up the opportunity.
It is a move they hope would be followed by other firms.
Convener Ian Budd said: “It’s hoped West Fraser will show leadership by installing a rail siding (small section of track) into its factory from the railway at Dalcross.
“Transport Scotland has already played its part.
“It has ensured Network Rail designed its new trackwork and signalling in connection with the nearby Inverness Airport Station to easily accommodate a West Fraser siding.”
Mr Budd added: “The West Fraser website makes it very clear that they intend to use rail as much as possible in the future.
“What better place to prove this than at Dalcross?”
West Fraser is non-committal
A West Fraser spokesman said: “Clearly, the company is keen to do this, but I’m afraid we can’t comment on timescales or potential costs at this juncture.”
The Inverness Airport Railway Station is opening early in the new year.
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