Tilbury3 planning approval unlocks next growth phase at Port of Tilbury
(Posted on 04/03/26)
The Port of Tilbury has announced the approval of an expansion plan for the development of Tilbury3 (T3) into a flexible, rail-connected port capable of accommodating a wide range of industrial and logistics activities. The site totals 143 acres for port operational use and ecological mitigation.
The outline planning consent from Thurrock Council for Tilbury3 is for general industrial storage, container operations, warehousing, processing and vehicle storage, alongside the handling of construction materials and aggregates, reinforcing Tilbury’s role as a well-connected, high-capacity, multi-modal hub. The site will benefit from direct strategic rail and road connections, including, in the years ahead, a connection onto the Lower Thames Crossing.
As part of the Thames Freeport, Tilbury3 will benefit from tax-site incentives designed to attract new investment and support the long-term growth of trade across the region. These advantages complement the wider Port’s existing strengths in bulk materials, Ro-Ro, automotive and containerised cargo, while expanding capacity to meet customer growth requirements.
The Tilbury3 development plans will maintain and build on the Port’s commitment to responsible and sustainable growth. Building on the strong environmental stewardship demonstrated through major projects, including Tilbury2 and the London Distribution Park, the Port will continue to enhance local habitats and supporting biodiversity. The T3 plan has clear environmental benefits with a continued focus on respecting the natural environment.
Stuart Wallace, CEO of Forth Ports, said: “This approval marks an important milestone in our long-term investment strategy for the Port of Tilbury, recognising its strategic location serving London and the Southeast. The Tilbury3 development is located adjacent to the Lower Thames Crossing northern tunnel junction, with Tilbury becoming one of the best road, rail and sea connected ports in the UK.
“Tilbury3 unlocks the next phase of sustainable growth across our operations, enabling us to expand capacity, meet the needs of our customers and create new market opportunities. The development will support existing jobs, create new employment and deliver long?term economic value, while our habitat creation plans will ensure we continue to protect and enhance the area’s natural environment.”
David Webster, Regional Director of Port of Tilbury, said: “We welcome Thurrock Council’s decision to approve Tilbury3, which represents a significant step in supporting our customers’ growth ambitions and strengthening Tilbury’s role as one of the UK’s best-connected ports. The additional capacity, flexible land use and Freeport advantages will allow us to respond to growing market demand and deliver scalable, multi-modal solutions for our customers.”
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