Severe Rail Disruption Impacting London Gateway and Tilbury Ports

Rail freight movements in and out of London Gateway and Tilbury are facing severe disruption, with restrictions expected to continue for several more days as repairs to damaged railway infrastructure progress.

Rail services at Tilbury have been suspended for the week, while London Gateway is operating a reduced service. A firm date for restoring normal operations has yet to be confirmed, leaving uncertainty over inland container movements.

The disruption follows the derailment of a GB Railfreight container train near Barking station on Friday 23 October. The train was travelling from London Gateway towards Hams Hall in Birmingham when several wagons derailed, affecting a key route linking the Thames ports with inland freight terminals.

Subsequent assessments identified extensive damage, with approximately 1.2 kilometres of track requiring renewal. Overhead electrical equipment and rolling stock were also damaged, making recovery and repairs a complex operation. Detailed inspections have been needed to establish the full extent of the work required before the route can safely reopen.

With rail capacity restricted, many containers are being moved by road instead. This increases demand for available haulage, puts extra pressure on collection slots and is leading to changes in delivery schedules. Where possible, customers should allow additional flexibility for movements to and from the affected ports.

If you have current shipments moving through London Gateway or Tilbury, please contact your Westbound representative to discuss how the disruption may affect your cargo and review the available transport options.