The Port of Tilbury has secured outline planning approval for its 143-acre Tilbury3 expansion, unlocking a major new phase of industrial and logistics growth on the Thames.

Thurrock Council’s decision clears the way for a flexible, rail-connected port zone capable of handling container operations, large-scale warehousing, vehicle storage and industrial processing.

Crucially for the construction sector, the consent also covers the import, storage and distribution of aggregates and bulk construction materials — strengthening Tilbury’s role as a key gateway supplying London and the South East.

The scheme will provide open storage yards, processing areas and HGV circulation space, alongside direct rail access into the port network. Its location adjacent to the future Lower Thames Crossing northern tunnel junction is expected to further enhance road connectivity.

With London heavily reliant on imported aggregates and bulk materials, Tilbury3 is designed to future-proof the capital’s building materials supply chain as housing and infrastructure demand continues to rise.

As part of the Thames Freeport, the site will benefit from tax-site incentives aimed at attracting occupiers and accelerating trade growth. The 143 acres include land for ecological mitigation and habitat creation, continuing the environmental approach adopted at Tilbury2.

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.”

Work will follow submission and approval of detailed reserved matters applications, with phased delivery expected over the coming years.