DP World has unveiled a massive GB£1 billion (US$1.3 billion) expansion at London Gateway, with plans to make it Britain’s largest container port within the next five years. This ambitious project will see the construction of two additional berths, bringing the total to six, and the addition of a second rail terminal to accommodate the projected surge in container trade.
Once completed, the full quayside will stretch over 2.5 kilometres and be equipped to handle six of the world’s largest container vessels simultaneously, each more than 400 metres in length. Notably, the expansion will feature Europe’s tallest quay cranes, boosting the port’s handling capacity. This strategic development underscores DP World’s commitment to increasing Britain’s global connectivity and enhancing supply chain resilience.
London Gateway has already proven itself a key player in the UK’s logistics landscape, handling around 2 million TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) annually. The site, originally a former oil refinery, has been transformed into one of the country’s largest logistics hubs, benefitting from significant investment. By 2024, DP World’s total investment at the port will exceed £3 billion (US$4 billion), highlighting its role as a catalyst for economic regeneration in the Thames Estuary, particularly in South Essex.
The addition of 400 new jobs brings the total workforce at London Gateway to 1,600, contributing to the economic revival of the area. The logistics park, Europe’s largest, currently employs 1,500 workers and offers integrated storage, warehousing, and distribution services. Tenants enjoy streamlined access to major motorway networks and rail freight connections, ensuring quick access to key markets in London and the South East.
Building Supply Chain Resilience and Sustainability
As the global supply chain landscape continues to evolve, businesses must navigate increasing complexity. DP World’s expansion is not just about growing capacity; it’s about preparing for the future of global trade. This growth reinforces the UK’s position as a critical hub for global trade, providing greater flexibility for businesses and ensuring that supply chains are resilient in the face of potential disruptions.
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman & CEO at DP World, commented: “DP World London Gateway will help make Britain’s trade flow in the future by connecting domestic exporters with global markets and delivering vital supply chain resilience for the whole economy.”
The expansion of London Gateway, combined with its role as a logistics park, positions it as a central hub for forward-thinking companies looking to enhance their supply chain operations and sustainability efforts. As the world moves towards greener, more efficient logistics, DP World’s latest developments provide the infrastructure necessary for long-term growth and environmental responsibility.
The investment in London Gateway, including the fully electric £350 million fourth berth, reflects DP World’s larger goal of driving sustainability across the logistics sector. The latest expansion not only promises to bolster the UK’s position in global trade but also enables a greater focus on reducing emissions and creating a greener future for international logistics.