First '66' to Sunderland marks return of freight to port

A DB Schenker Class 66 carried out a light engine trial at the Port of Sunderland on February 5, following work by Network Rail to reinstate the former line in December 2014 and January 2015.

The port has not had working rail lines for more than 20 years, but will now be able to take on commercial rail freight projects.

“We have always enjoyed great access to open sea, and the port is well placed in terms of its links to major roads and airports,” said Port Director Matthew Hunt. “However, for more than 20 years, Port of Sunderland has not had any rail traffic coming into its heart.”