UK-based provider of integrated road and rail freight logistics Maritime Transport has completed the development of a new container storage terminal at the Port of Liverpool, which opened earlier this week [2 September 2024].
Operating 24/7 and with capacity for up to 2,000 TEU, Maritime says that this site is ‘uniquely placed to offer a full spectrum of storage, handling and maintenance services, supporting both long- and short-term requirements for loaded and empty container storage’.
It also notes that the site features reefer plugin points, devanning services, a comprehensive security setup and a large vehicle fleet for first- and final-mile transport.
Additionally, the company has invested in what it describes as ‘cutting-edge’ container handling equipment. The site houses two new SANY H9 reach stackers operating, which Maritime says ‘reduce fuel consumption by 20%’.
Tom Williams, deputy CEO of Maritime Transport: “We are delighted to open our newest container storage site at the Port of Liverpool, meeting the rising demand for storage options in the area. This expansion increases our capacity and provides new, modern facilities for our drivers and operational teams.
“It’s an excellent addition to our network that will undoubtedly strengthen our service capabilities, and accommodate the growing volume of cargo activity at the port following the introduction of MSC’s Britannia service.”
As part of the multi-million-pound project, Maritime is expanding its existing transport depot within the port from four acres to 11.4 acres. A new two-storey building, currently under construction, is set replace the existing structure, offering ‘modern’ amenities such as shower facilities, kitchenettes, meeting rooms, driver lounges and large office spaces. This forms part of Maritime’s wider redesign to ‘improve and standardise the company’s operational buildings’.
David Huck, COO at Peel Ports Group, added: “We’re very pleased to see the completion of Maritime’s purpose-built space at the Port of Liverpool, which is a really positive development for the region that will create additional opportunities for cargo owners and retailers under current economic pressures.
“This investment highlights the port’s strategic importance as a hub for both national and international trade and we look forward to continuing our strong partnership with Maritime as we work together to support the growth and resilience of the UK’s supply chain.”
Maritime now operates four dedicated container storage sites in Ipswich, Northampton, Liverpool and Southampton, exceeding 30,000 TEU capacity, in addition to eight open-access, multi-user rail freight terminals in Tamworth, Birmingham, Manchester, Wakefield, Northampton, Mossend, Tilbury and East Midlands Gateway.
Earlier this year, Maritime was also appointed as long-term operator of the Strategic Rail Freight Interchange (SRFI) at West Midlands Interchange. Plus, in May 2024, Logistics Manager reported that Maritime had signed an exclusive agreement to develop, lease and operate Tritax Symmetry’s planned £750 million SRFI at Hinckley National Rail Freight Interchange.
