Tilbury3 planning approval unlocks next growth phase at Port of Tilbury

The Port of Tilbury announces today (25 February), 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.”