In response to growing container volumes at DP World London Gateway, Maritime Transport has unveiled two new rail freight services connecting the deep-water port with inland terminals, marking a strategic shift toward more sustainable supply chain operations.
The newly launched services will operate six days per week between London Gateway and key logistics hubs at Hams Hall in the West Midlands and iPort Doncaster in South Yorkshire. Developed in partnership with GB Railfreight, these routes represent Maritime Transport's latest investment in expanding its rail network infrastructure.
Addressing Port Growth and Sustainability Goals
The initiative comes as DP World prepares to begin a £1 billion expansion project at London Gateway this month, reinforcing the port's position as Britain's premier deep-water facility. John Bailey, Indirect Business Director at Maritime Transport, noted: "With London Gateway experiencing strong container volume growth through its role in the Gemini Cooperation's Asia-Europe network, reliable inland connections have become critical."
Bailey emphasized that the rail services would provide essential additional capacity while supporting the transition from road to rail transport - a move that aligns with the UK's decarbonization targets. Rail freight produces approximately 76% fewer carbon emissions compared to road haulage per ton-mile transported.
Expanding the Rail Network
Maritime Transport plans to introduce additional routes in coming weeks, including connections between:
- Felixstowe and Manchester
- DP World London Gateway and East Midlands Gateway
- Southampton and the company's Northampton SEGRO Logistics Park distribution center
The Northampton facility, fully integrated into the national rail network, represents the newest addition to Maritime Transport's growing portfolio of rail terminals.
A Sustainable Future for Freight
Julie Garn, Indirect Business Director at GB Railfreight, highlighted rail's dual role in economic growth and environmental sustainability: "These new services demonstrate how long-term collaboration can create practical low-carbon alternatives to road transport, benefiting both businesses and the broader supply chain."
The developments come as the logistics industry faces mounting pressure to improve efficiency while reducing emissions. With global supply chains still recovering from pandemic-era disruptions and facing new challenges from geopolitical tensions, infrastructure investments like these aim to create more resilient and sustainable freight networks.