DP World opens new truckstop at Southampton Port

DP World has opened a new GBP20m truckstop at Southampton port, built to give drivers the facilities they've long been asking for.

The 24,000 m2 site includes a restaurant, cafe, clean bathrooms, showers and more than 130 secure parking spaces. Run by Cartland Truck Stop, it also features rapid charging that can get an eHGV ready to roll in just 90 minutes.

The site has been two years in the making and follows the model of DP World's Hireco Truck Park at London Gateway. The company says the aim is to put driver welfare front and centre across its UK ports.

A new pre-gate entry system has also been introduced, helping cut waiting times and ease congestion -- a big win for both drivers and local residents, the company reckons.

Ernst Schulze, DP World ports and terminals lead for Northern Europe, said: "This GBP20m investment is a clear statement of our commitment to drivers, who are a vital part of the UK supply chain.

By providing modern, secure and comfortable facilities alongside cutting-edge EV charging, we are working to future-proof UK logistics while ensuring the people who keep trade moving are well looked after." Satvir Kaur, MP for Southampton Test, added: "The opening of this new facility by DP World is very welcome in Southampton. DP World's recent investment into the port has not only helped to ease local traffic flows for local residents and contribute towards tackling the climate crisis, but now also ensures drivers are properly cared for.

"This project sets a strong national example of how greening our economy can lead to additional benefits, from better welfare at work to less congestion on our roads.

I wish it every success."