DP World has revealed plans for a £1 billion (US $1.3 billion) expansion of London Gateway, positioning it to become Britain’s largest container port within the next five years. This ambitious project aims to enhance the UK’s trade capabilities and strengthen its economic resilience.
The expansion will add two new shipping berths, increasing the total to six, all designed to accommodate the world’s largest container ships. By the end of the decade, the port will feature a 2.5km quayside, allowing six vessels over 400 metres in length to be handled simultaneously. It will also boast Europe’s tallest quay cranes, rivalling the height of Big Ben.
The development is expected to generate 400 permanent jobs, adding to the 1,200 already employed at the port. This project marks the continuation of rapid growth for the Thames Estuary hub, which has been pivotal in the economic regeneration of south Essex since its 2013 opening.
“DP World London Gateway will help secure the future of Britain’s trade by connecting domestic exporters with global markets and ensuring supply chain resilience across the economy,” said Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, DP World’s Group Chairman & CEO. “This significant investment underscores DP World’s long-term commitment to the UK.”
Once completed, DP World’s total investment at London Gateway will surpass £3 billion, transforming a former oil refinery site into one of the UK’s most important logistics hubs. A recent £350 million addition of a fourth berth, fully powered by electricity, highlights the port’s growing sustainability efforts.
Ernst Schulze, CEO of DP World UK Ports & Terminals, emphasised the strategic value of the expansion, stating: “London Gateway’s location and transport links make it an ideal site for further growth. The additional capacity will enhance the reliability and resilience of our supply chains, which is critical in times of uncertainty, such as during the pandemic and geopolitical disruptions.”
Pending planning approval and regulatory clearance, the expansion is expected to significantly increase the port’s trade volume, which currently handles nearly 2 million TEU annually. This project reaffirms DP World’s integral role in the UK economy, where it employs 5,500 workers across various logistics sectors.
As part of its global network spanning 78 countries and handling 10% of world trade, DP World’s expansion of London Gateway represents a major step forward in bolstering the UK’s position in global logistics and trade.
Copyright Ships & Ports Ltd. Permission to use quotations from this article is granted subject to appropriate credit given to www.shipsandports.com.ng as the source.
