DP World is installing four new quay cranes at its UK container terminals in London Gateway and Southampton, increasing capacity for the largest ships operating on international routes.
Two cranes have arrived at London Gateway from Shanghai. Each is more than 2,000 tonnes and nearly 150 metres high. They will be deployed at the new all-electric Berth 5, part of a £1 billion port expansion scheduled to bring the berth into operation in 2027. Two more cranes are expected there in the coming months.
Southampton is due to receive its pair next week, following the delivery of two cranes in June. The terminal will then have 16 quay cranes. The four cranes delivered to Southampton this year represent a £60 million investment.
The equipment can perform tandem lifts of two 40-foot containers, allowing both terminals to serve vessels with capacities of up to 24,000 TEU. For shippers, the additional capability should support higher volumes and more efficient vessel calls.
DP World’s economic assessment says London Gateway and its logistics park support 10,500 jobs and contribute £799 million to UK GDP. The company says its London Gateway and Southampton operations handle 46% of UK containerised trade.
The wider London Gateway project includes two further all-electric berths and a second rail terminal. DP World expects the site to become the UK’s largest container port before the end of the decade. Electric cargo-handling equipment also supports the Port of London Authority’s net-zero ambition.
A multilingual professional experienced in Europe, Canada, and China, Herbert has developed invaluable networks in the automotive and energy industries. He has led high-profile projects involving ENBW, Mercedes-Benz Group, Siemens Group, and the Fraunhofer Institute.