New rail service launched from Felixstowe
In UK port news, a new rail service has just launched from Felixstowe Port to the Midlands, adding increased capability to Britain’s biggest and busiest rail port. The new intermodal freight service is operated by GB Railfreight and connects the port to the Birch Coppice Terminal in the Midlands. The first train left Felixstowe on the 23rd January passing through Hams Hall, Leicester, Peterborough and Ipswich. The service will run 5 days per week and is made up of 33 platforms which can accommodate a variety of intermodal containers.
Managing Director of GB Railfreight, John Smith said to Hutchinson Ports Ltd;
“We’re thrilled to be putting on this new service, which will be running on a daily basis. It is demonstrative of the wider sea change we are seeing in the rail freight industry, as the UK moves from its industrial roots to become a service and consumer- led economy. This is reflected in the fact that intermodal traffic now accounts for approximately 36% of rail freight industry wide.
The route is also practical, with this new Midlands service meaning Birch Coppice can accommodate business that was going to Hams Hall, allowing our client Wincanton additional space for its logistics operation that is centred around the facility.”
The port already runs rail services across the country, this additional freight service will increase the port’s capability to send cargo around Britain.