DP World has imported four large cranes from Europe to its ports in the UK. This move is part of the company's ongoing investment to increase capacity and support trade growth in the UK.
Details of Crane Arrival
The first pair of these cranes, each weighing over 2000 tons and standing nearly 150 meters tall, arrived fully via sea at London Gateway on September 25. These cranes have completed their long journey from Shanghai and are currently being installed at Berth 5, as part of DP World's £1 billion expansion plan for the under-construction port. This port is set to be operational by 2027.
Increased Capacity and Operational Capability
The second pair of cranes is also expected to arrive at the port of Southampton next week. With the arrival of these four new cranes, the total number of active cranes at this terminal will reach 16. The investment value in these four cranes amounts to £60 million and significantly improves the operational capacity of this terminal.
These cranes are capable of performing "simultaneous lifts" of two 40-foot containers and can service the largest container ships currently in operation. This capability allows both terminals to manage growing trade volumes and increasing ship sizes on global maritime transport routes. Additionally, two more cranes are set to be delivered to Berth 5 at London Gateway in the coming months.
Economic Implications
The arrival of this new equipment at two of the UK's most important container terminals comes as DP World has released a new report showing that London Gateway and its logistics park have created over 10,000 jobs in the UK and added nearly £800 million to the UK’s GDP.
The report states that £799 million of GDP in the UK is supported by DP World London Gateway, and 10,500 jobs in the broader economy are created and supported by the operations of this site. Furthermore, 46% of the UK's container trade is now conducted by DP World's combined operations at London Gateway and Southampton.
Chris Adams, CEO of DP World at the UK ports and terminals, stated: "Trade is the driver of our growth and prosperity, so the UK needs world-class infrastructure capable of managing maritime trade demands. These new cranes represent a significant investment in this infrastructure that will enhance productivity, employment, and national income in the UK."
Satvir Kaur, MP for Southampton Test, added: "The arrival of these large cranes in Southampton, this welcome investment helps us to be recognized as one of the key centers of international trade in the UK."
James McMurdock, MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock, also noted that this significant investment provides greater capacity for managing and moving cargo, increasing local job opportunities and economic growth.
Read more: Golf Tournament Held by Oil Executives in Caracas
