Major expansion plan submitted for Port of Tilbury

Plans have been submitted to expand the Port of Tilbury by 100 acres (40ha) in Essex.

Construction work on the north bank of the Thames estuary could begin in 2026, with owner Forth Ports hoping it would be operational by 2030.

Chief executive Stuart Wallace said it was an "exciting time" for the port, which could bring trade, investment and jobs.

Blueprints sent to Thurrock Council showed the Tilbury3 (T3) project would focus on brownfield land that once housed a power station.

The area of land that could be developed is equivalent in size to 70 football pitches.

Forth Ports said T3 would benefit from tax breaks due to its designation as part of the Thames Freeport where normal tax and tariff rules do not apply.

Planning proposals suggested it could accommodate warehouses, container handling infrastructure and vehicles.

"This is an exciting time for the Port of Tilbury as we submit our plans for Tilbury3," Mr Wallace said.

"T3 will sustain existing roles and create many new jobs, contribute to the local economy and future-proof the Port of Tilbury in supporting the economies of Greater London and the south-east."

The company said it would create habitats for protected species in the area during the works.

It planned to submit a detailed planning application if outline approval was granted.

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