Porterbrook has signed an agreement with GB Railfreight (GBRf) for the supply of 56 new high-capacity box wagons, reinforcing the role of rail freight in supporting Britain's steelmaking sector while investing in domestic manufacturing.
The new fleet of MWA wagons will be built by WH Davis in Nottinghamshire, with production scheduled to begin ahead of the first wagon entering service in September 2027. Once operational, the wagons will transport recycled scrap material to 7Steel's Cardiff facility, where it will be used in the production of UK-made steel.
The deal represents a significant investment in British-built rolling stock and highlights a collaborative approach between the rail freight, manufacturing and steel sectors to strengthen domestic supply chains.
Max Ordish, Porterbrook Head of Freight & Commercial Projects, said: “Porterbrook is delighted to support the domestic freight industry by providing UK-built wagons for the purpose of UK-made steel. By working in partnership with GB Railfreight and WH Davies, we’re helping to ensure the sector can continue to meet the changing needs of customers and the industry.”
The wagons will provide additional freight capacity for GBRf, enabling more recycled material to be moved by rail to support steel production while helping to reduce reliance on road transport.
Liam Day, Interim Managing Director at GB Railfreight, said:
“This is a deal made in Britain, for British steelmaking, and that’s something we’re really proud to be part of.”
“These wagons will be built in Nottinghamshire, operated by GBRf and used to move recycled material into Cardiff to support steel production. It’s exactly the sort of work we want to be doing, supporting British industry and moving more goods by rail.”
The new wagons have been designed specifically for the scrap steel market and will be manufactured by WH Davis, part of Buckland Rail.
Andy Houghton, Managing Director of WH Davis, said: “WH Davis, part of Buckland Rail, is delighted to be partnering with Porterbrook and GBRf on this new wagon build. The latest evolution of our MWA box wagon design demonstrates the strength of British engineering and manufacturing, delivering a purpose-built solution for the demanding scrap steel market.
“By combining innovative design with domestic manufacturing expertise, we are delivering practical benefits for customers while supporting jobs, skills and the wider UK supply chain.”
A key feature of the new fleet is its 75m³ capacity, around 25% greater than a standard box wagon, allowing operators to maximise payloads and improve operational efficiency. The wagons will also be fitted with TF25-friendly bogies designed to reduce wheel wear, lowering maintenance requirements and improving whole-life cost performance.
The investment is also expected to support employment and resilience across the UK industrial supply chain.
Vorn O’Hennessy, Head of Supply Chain at 7Steel, said: "This partnership showcases UK industry working together to strengthen domestic supply chains, transforming UK scrap into UK melted and poured steel for infrastructure and construction projects. By improving the efficient movement of materials, it supports jobs, sustainability and greater resilience across the UK economy."
The agreement underlines growing demand for modern, high-capacity freight wagons as the rail sector continues to support Britain's industrial and decarbonisation ambitions.
Image credits: Porterbrook
