New operator takes over Telford International Railfreight Park
Europe’s largest rail freight company has today taken over as the new operator of the Telford International Railfreight Park.
DB Schenker Rail has been appointed through formal EU Procurement after Telford & Wrekin Council consulted with railfreight industry experts on how to boost business opportunities via the railfreight park.
The aim is to encourage even more local businesses to get on board and take up the opportunity to use this unique facility that is on their door step.
The link with DB Schenker will also support the council’s ambition to attract even more companies to relocate to Telford; helping to enhance the borough’s reputation as a top business destination.
Councillor Charles Smith, cabinet member for Housing, Regeneration and Economic Development, said: “DB Schenker is a key global player in the multi modal freight market and we are delighted that they are about to take over the operation of the terminal.
“This is the appointment of a major company to take the facility forward and is just one more example of Telford & Wrekin Council as a dynamic business supporting authority that is working to attract inward investment.
“I look forward to the terminal being used a lot more in the years to come as DB Schenker Rail develops a strategy that enables major local businesses to use it effectively.”
David Legge, Business Manager Logistics for DB Schenker Rail UK, said: “Terminals are crucial for the development of rail freight services, and the facility at Telford is a unique opportunity to increase volumes moved by rail rather than road.
“DB Schenker Rail is proud to have been awarded the contract to operate and manage the terminal and by working with Telford & Wrekin Council we aim to make it a success.
“We will integrate the terminal at Telford into our existing terminal network throughout the UK, in order to maximise growth in volumes handled at the facility.”
Telford International Railfreight Park was opened in June 2009 and can load or unload up to the four freight trains a day.
It was funded by a combination of Telford & Wrekin Council, Advantage West Midlands, the Homes and Communities Agency and the European Regional Development Fund.
