A new commercial freight deal has been signed by a Kent port, increasing direct services to Poland.

Hutchison Ports London Thamesport, on the Isle of Grain, says the deal with Helsinki-based Containerships plc will help grow its reputation as a short-sea container hub.

It will see the Finnish firm introduce a second weekly service from Gdynia, Poland.

Transit times to Gdynia will take three to four days and four to six for the return journey.

Mark Taylor, on behalf of London Thamesport, said: “Containerships’ port of choice reflects the growing interest we are seeing for short sea container services into London Thamesport.

"This additional direct service from Gdynia provides a reliable, cost effective short sea alternative to road transport from Poland. This will provide a welcome option for UK importers struggling with driver shortages and higher haulage rates on the continent.

“As Brexit draws nearer, an increasing number of importers and exporters are reviewing their supply chain strategies, looking for routes that offer high resilience whatever the Brexit outcome. Working with our partners at Hutchison Logistics, and utilising London Thamesport’s locational advantages, we are ideally placed to help in that process.”

Containerships is a leading short sea, end-to-end operator. It is present in 21 countries and operates a fleet of 14 ships across the North and Baltic Seas as well as the Mediterranean.