A partnership between Freightliner, WH Davis and Porterbrook will see a residual coal fleet repurposed into aggregate box wagons, supporting the UK supply chain and driving sustainable innovation in the rail industry.

The repurposed wagons will be funded by Porterbrook, with the conversions being carried out at the WH Davis factory in Mansfield, bringing new life and service to an otherwise redundant fleet.

Dave Penney, Managing Director - Rail Services & Heavy Haul at Freightliner, commented, "We are delighted to be giving an otherwise redundant coal wagon fleet a new lease of life. Not only is this the more sustainable option, but it also allows us to support the local economy as these wagons will be reconditioned in the UK. We look forward to seeing the wagons in action next year delivering for our customers across the UK."

Mark Wyborn, Head of Freight at Porterbrook, said, "With freight volumes in the construction sector on the rise and expected to continue growing, we are proud to support the industry through our partnership with Freightliner and WH Davis. This agreement highlights our commitment to investing in the long-term growth of rail freight while providing affordable, innovative, and sustainable rolling stock for the UK railway."

Andy Houghton, Managing Director - WH Davis Ltd, added, "This is a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate what can be achieved by giving redundant fleets a purpose for the next 30 plus years. It's a truly sustainable option that also gives UK manufacturing a boost to enable the creation of UK jobs in the industry. I really can't wait to see our latest box wagon design in traffic for Freightliner in 2025"

It was also announced back in May 2024 that in Germany DB Cargo has implemented a cost-effective strategy to modernise its timber transport fleet by repurposing wagons from its steel division.

Photo: DB Cargo