DB Cargo UK and CEMEX delivered a positive boost to the UK’s rail freight sector this week with the launch of a brand-new service.
Despite the ongoing economic uncertainty caused by the Coronavirus pandemic, a train carrying 1,684 tonnes of aggregates made its inaugural journey from CEMEX’s site at Peak Forest in Derbyshire to Small Heath in Birmingham.
The train consisted of 22 MMA box wagons carrying aggregates for use in Birmingham’s construction sector and the development of HS2.
The launch of the new weekly service at a time when the industry is experiencing a general downturn in traffic due to Coronavirus restrictions is being seen as a really positive sign that the future continues to look bright for rail freight.
DB Cargo UK’s Head of Sales Roger Neary said: “It’s great to be in a position to continue to offer our customers new opportunities in the current economic climate. The construction sector has for a long time been a key market for DB Cargo UK and we are determined to do whatever we can to support our customers through these challenging times.”
“The current crisis really has underpinned the important role DB Cargo UK and other rail freight companies have to play in keeping the country’s supply chains running in hard times. We’re proud of the role our people are playing.”
CEMEX’s UK Supply Chain Director Dave Hart said: “We are very pleased to have added this new service to our aggregates supply chain, as it quickly and efficiently ensures our product can get where it is needed. This is more important than ever during these difficult times as our materials are needed for vital infrastructure to keep the country going. Rail is an integral component of our transport strategy and we are planning to develop our portfolio further as we look to make our operations as sustainable as possible.”
Photo credit: DB Cargo UK
