DP World introduces a second rail service linking London Gateway and Southampton, significantly reducing lorry traffic.
- The initiative aims to remove over one million truck miles from UK roads annually, mitigating carbon emissions.
- A mid-week service launched by Freightliner enhances the existing weekend route, incentivising greater rail freight utilisation.
- Customers benefit from financial incentives under the Modal Shift Programme, promoting increased rail transport usage.
- The programme substantially boosts rail freight’s share at Southampton, aligning with DP World’s environmental ambitions.
DP World has launched a second weekly container rail service that connects the London Gateway and Southampton ports. This strategic move is aimed at significantly reducing the number of lorry journeys, thereby alleviating road congestion and cutting carbon emissions. The newly introduced mid-week train service, operated by Freightliner, complements the existing weekend service initiated in 2022. Offering enhanced access to the London Gateway Logistics Park, this expansion represents a key step in DP World’s commitment to sustainable logistics.
In line with its ambitious goals, DP World has introduced a financial incentive scheme under the Modal Shift Programme. Customers are encouraged to opt for rail over road through a reimbursement scheme. The programme’s design includes a flat fee for import-laden containers, with reimbursements for containers moved to railheads more than 140 miles away from the terminal. Additionally, a £70 incentive is provided for movements within 140 miles. This structure not only incentivises customers but also supports DP World’s overarching goal of achieving a 40% rail freight share by 2025. Such an achievement is projected to eliminate approximately 30,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide from supply chains annually.
The initiative has already made significant strides, with rail freight’s share at the Southampton hub increasing from 21% to over 30% since the programme’s initiation. This progress underscores the effectiveness of the Modal Shift Programme and DP World’s strategic direction. John Trenchard, Vice President of DP World UK, expressed that the expansion is a logical development given the clear benefits for customers. He emphasised the importance of providing a cleaner and more cost-effective method of transporting cargo across the UK.
Chris Lawrenson from Freightliner highlighted the beneficial partnership with DP World, remarking on the success of the second weekly port train service. He stressed their ongoing commitment to facilitating a modal shift between Southampton and London Gateway, aided by their carbon-efficient fleet. This collaboration exemplifies industry efforts to offer lower carbon alternatives for international container movements.
DP World’s expanded rail service marks a significant step towards sustainable transport solutions, aligning with broader environmental objectives.
