Cranes boost capacity at London Gateway
DP World has increased rail capacity at its London Gateway terminal by 50% with the arrival of two new rail-mounted gantry (RMG) cranes.
Beginning operation in mid-August, the new cranes will also increase box handling by 75% and help meet the growing customer demand for increased rail connections and more sustainable supply chains.
This latest move is part of DP World’s commitment to increase the movement of cargo by rail, demonstrated by the introduction of the Southampton Modal Shift Programme trial which has increased the share of rail freight to 30% since September 2023.
“Customers choose us for our assets, our capabilities and the quality of our customer service,” said Ahsan Agha, vice president Port Operations at DP World London Gateway.
“The expansion of capacity at the London Gateway rail terminal is testament to that service, with the increase in rail journeys between London Gateway and our UK rail network connections ensuring that our customers stay competitive while reducing their carbon emissions in order to meet their key sustainability targets.”
The £12m RMG cranes weigh around 480 tonnes with a lifting capacity of 41 tonnes. Delivered by ZPMC, the RMG cranes are equipped with the latest control system and software which DP World hopes will significantly enhance operational efficiency and safety.
The arrival of the new cranes precedes the launch of London Gateway’s £350m new fourth berth later this year, said to be the first all-electric berth at a port anywhere in the world.