Full 9'6" capability at Felixstowe
Thursday 14 Oct 2004
The first services for 9'6" containers have commenced following the completion of major engineering work from the Port of Felixstowe.
Both Freightliner and GB Railfreight have immediately taken advantage of the improved capability of the rail network from Felixstowe by running services for the larger containers to the Midlands, North West and Scotland.
The 18 month project to enhance the rail network that allows unhindered movement of 9'6" containers on standard rail equipment was funded by SRA as part of their gauge enhancement program and delivered by Network Rail. It was completed early and at £30m, significantly under budget.
Commenting on the opening, Phil McGrath, Business Development Director at GB Railfreight, "It will give shippers a wider range of economic and efficient services - and that's good news for them"
Following the opening, Freightliner have announced a further 6 trains a week from the port, and plans for services specifically targeted at 9'6" markets. Freightliner's Managing Director, Peter Maybury commented "Freightliner is delighted to build on the benefits that the major investment by the SRA and Network Rail brings for the movement of freight by rail at the Port Felixstowe"
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