A PORT operator is targeting further growth across container work after buying specialist equipment.

PD Ports, which oversees Teesport, has ordered three gantry cranes, which it says will help shift more goods.

The company also says the move will allow it to build on container volumes, which have increased 13 per cent year-on-year since 2007, making it the North’s second largest container port.

Bosses added the firm has spent about £60m at Teesport to raise capacity and meet rising demand.

David Robinson, PD Ports’ group chief executive, said: “We are committed to continuing to invest in Teesport to ensure we have the right infrastructure to support the growth of our business and those of our customers.

“Teesport continues to be a leading player in the UK ports sector and these new cranes signify the next step in its development.”

The company is working with Liebherr Container Cranes on the order.

Pat O’Leary, Liebherr Container Cranes’ managing director, added: “Liebherr has been a commercial partner of PD Ports for more than 25 years.

“We are delighted to continue this partnership to supply these machines.”

PD Ports' investment comes after it overhauled its quayside earlier this year, in a £22m move aimed at attracting larger vessels.

The company re-built 305 metres of loading space at Teesport, which it says will allow it to host next generation ships capable of hauling up to 70,000 tonnes.

The improvements have created 30 full-time jobs across cargo handling roles, with 21 positions already filled.