DP World London Gateway’s logistics hub has this week been opened by transport minister Robert Goodwill.

The first phase of the port’s Logistics Centre development, which is being operated by Southampton-based Import Services, comprises 180,000ft² of distribution and logistics space and 25,000ft² of office space.

The DC was officially opened by the transport minister on Monday (20 July), but port operator DP World is planning to increase the centre to 36,000m² (387,500ft²) based on demand.

The hub’s next building, currently being developed by Prologis, is expected to become operational in September.

John Eynon, Import Services MD, said the operator has so far seen high demand for its cross-docking, high-volume order processing, and pre-retail services. It is offering logistics services at the site on a pay-as-you-go basis.

“In just two months of operations at the new London Gateway Logistics Centre, the strong demand for our services means we are already approaching capacity of phase one and now seeking to accelerate development of additional warehousing space at London Gateway,” Eynon said.

Transport minister Robert Goodwill said: “I am delighted to have been able to open the London Gateway Logistics Centre, which is the next step in this ground-breaking development on the north-bank of the River Thames which is breath-taking in its size, scale and attention to detail.”

Container haulier Pentalver also opened a depot at London Gateway earlier this year, allowing it to down-size its Tilbury operation.