British Prime Minister David Cameron recently toured Liverpool2, which when completed will become Europe's first semi-automated container port able to accommodate 95 per cent of the world's containerships, according to Shipping Gazette.
"Liverpool2 will allow the biggest ships to unload via Merseyside. So many ships come to southern ports yet so much freight is destined for the North. This ensures freight can come directly to the North," said Mr Cameron.
The GBP300 million (US$504 million) Liverpool port expansion is being undertaken by Peel Ports to create the most central deep water container terminal in the UK offering customers complete ship-to-door service.
Mr Cameron announced a GBP150 million partnership to create the first canal-linked logistics park in the UK, with a direct feed from Liverpool2, connecting a number of hubs along the Manchester Ship Canal.
Said Peel Ports CEO Mark Whitworth: "We were pleased to show the Prime Minister how Liverpool2 is progressing. What makes Liverpool2 special is its location and facilities."
Peel Ports announced in April 2014 a GBP100 million deal with Shanghai's ZPMC to supply eight ship-to-shore megamax quay cranes and 22 cantilever rail-mounted gantry cranes.
With semi-automated remote-controlled operation, the cranes will reduce the time taken to transfer boxes. They will also have the ability to operate at speeds in excess of 30mph and wind speeds of up to 55mph (88kph).
The port is also supported by a fully integrated Navis N4 terminal operating system, autogates and ABB equipment controls. Together, they are intended to make Liverpool2 one of the most efficient ports in Northern Europe.