Associated British Ports (ABP) is handing over operations at Hams Hall rail freight terminal to Maritime Transport from July 3.

Maritime Transport, an ABP customer at Hams Hall, has been pursuing a strategy to increase rail use. Over the past three years, it has established a growing intermodal sector at the site, on the north-east outskirts of Birmingham.

ABP says awarding Maritime a long-term lease to operate the terminal, which opened in 1997 and is built on the former power station site alongside the Nuneaton-Birmingham line, will enable expansion.

“We have long viewed Hams Hall as a critical location in our plans to move more cargo by rail, and we are delighted to agree a long-term solution to operate it,” said Maritime Transport Executive Chairman John Williams.

“We are fully focused on offering the best, secure and sustainable solutions to our customers, reducing the environment impact of their supply chains.”

Alastair Welch, ABP Regional Director for Southampton, added: “We know that Maritime Transport is well placed to develop Hams Hall further, incorporating it into its offer for sustainable supply chain solutions. We look forward to working with them on a smooth transition.”