Scottish Ministers have given the go ahead for a proposed new International Railfreight Terminal at Bellshill in North Lanarkshire.

The development will be one of Scotland's biggest modern railfreight project's, with the potential to deliver 4,900 jobs during the construction and operational phase.

In addition to new freight handling capabilities, Mossend International Railfreight Park (MIRP) will provide adjoining distribution facilities, enabling more businesses to shift long distance freight from road to rail.

The operators of the existing Mossend Railhead, PD Stirling, will expand its existing operations to provide Scotland with a 66% increased capacity rail link to UK and European markets.

-- Advertisement --

MIRP will feature warehousing and manufacturing space adjacent to the terminal along with bespoke, low carbon distribution, service and logistics facilities allowing occupiers to load directly to and from the trains.

Facilities will be developed to meet market demand and to accommodate a range of operators and building types.

The development of MIRP with direct access to the strategic road network and will remove all associated HGV traffic from the local road network, as well as bringing a more efficient and sustainable alternative to long haul road transport.

David Stirling, PD Stirling, said: "We're delighted with today's decision as it will open up new opportunities for railfreight and sustainable low-carbon logistics in Scotland. MIRP will create a major new railfreight facility and help to secure new investment and economic activity both in Lanarkshire and across Scotland. MIRP will be able to compete favourably on cost with road transport, extend choice and support the sustainable movement of goods to and from Scotland.

"We recognise that there has been some local concern but are looking forward to working with residents to put in place locally supported management for the proposed community woodland which will include walkways, woodlands and cycle routes."

(LM/MH)