A new multi-million pound rail freight hub has been completed at Scotland’s largest port to improve its position as a strategic freight import and export hub.
The Port of Grangemouth 's £3m investment will aim to increase its capacity with a direct link to the main container terminal.
The changes were made at the end of last year, as southern UK ports faced Brexit-induced increased congestion.
The upgrades will scale up and modernise the port’s current rail capacity with an extended dual rail siding of 775 metres - previously 200 metres - capable of handling the longest freight trains on the UK network.
The opening was marked with the arrival of Direct Rail Service’s Aberdeen freight train.
The port has invested £30m in infrastructure and equipment during the past five years.
Derek Knox, senior port manager at the port of Grangemouth, said: “The opening of our new freight rail hub comes at an important time for the freight market as businesses are seeking flexible, resilient, and greener supply chain solutions.”
Chris Connelly, deputy chief executive and rail director of NTS, which operates Direct Rail Services, added: “Rail freight reduces carbon emissions by 76% compared to road and this new siding will allow even longer, heavier trains, further increasing their environmental credentials and meaning fewer lorries on our roads.”
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