Stobart Ports has initiated a second daily train service between Felixstowe and Widnes.
- The service aims to remove 500 lorry trips weekly from UK roads, enhancing safety and reducing congestion.
- In partnership with GB Railfreight, this expansion responds to increased demand since October 2023.
- Eleven weekly train services now operate between these key logistics hubs.
- Stobart Ports emphasises sustainability, echoing their commitment to eco-friendly logistics.
Stobart Ports has taken a significant step towards alleviating road congestion by introducing a second daily train service connecting the Port of Felixstowe and Widnes. This expansion is part of a broader strategy to replace heavy goods vehicle (HGV) movements with rail freight, a move that promises to take approximately 500 lorries off the road every week. This initiative not only enhances road safety but also supports environmental sustainability efforts.
The collaboration with GB Railfreight underscores a strategic response to the rising demand for rail logistics services observed since the initial service launch in October 2023. Stobart Ports has now increased its total services between Felixstowe and Widnes to eleven per week. The new service highlights the growing recognition of rail transport as a viable alternative to road freight, known for its operational efficiency and lower environmental impact.
The Widnes site is strategically equipped to provide final-mile and storage solutions which complement its rail services, further enhancing the logistical efficacy of this initiative. By removing 500 HGV movements from the road network each week, Stobart Ports contributes significantly to reduced congestion and improved road safety across the UK.
Sean French, Managing Director of Stobart Ports, elaborated on the environmental benefits of this initiative, stating, “Rail reduces carbon emissions by up to 76% compared to road transport, which is why we continue to invest heavily in rail logistics.” In 2024 alone, the company has transported over 100,000 containers by rail, substantially cutting road miles and advancing towards its annual CO2 reduction targets of roughly 20,000 tonnes.
Julie Garn, head of intermodal at GB Railfreight, noted the success and potential of the partnership, stating her delight in effectively doubling the volume transported between Felixstowe and Widnes. Having moved 100,000 containers so far in 2024, there is a strategic aim to double this figure by the year’s end, demonstrating a robust commitment to intermodal transport solutions.
Stobart Ports’ expansion of rail services demonstrates a pivotal shift towards sustainable and efficient transport solutions.
