The Hive is a new £13m facility jointly funded by DP World and Thames Freeport that will support more than 1,100 trainees per year
DP World and Thames Freeport have completed The Hive, a new £13 million skills, amenity and innovation hub at London Gateway, designed to support the growth of one of the UK’s leading logistics centres while creating new opportunities for local communities.
The facility at the centre of London Gateway’s Logistics Park houses a dedicated training and innovation skills centre, providing more than 100 days of industrial and employability skills programmes each year and supporting around 1,125 trainees annually across the Freeport.
With a particular focus on advanced logistics, The Hive will host simulators for crane driver training, training for working at height, and VR technology for broader careers activities to support people interested in pursuing a career in maritime and logistics.
The Hive also provides amenity space for on-site employees and businesses in the connected Port and Logistics Park ecosystem of London Gateway 7, acting as a central hub for collaboration and wellbeing.
The three-storey facility includes flexible meeting rooms, a double height training and events space, and a 100-person auditorium, alongside a gym, all-weather padel court and multi-use sports pitch with dugout. The project forms part of wider efforts to ensure the continued growth of London Gateway creates opportunities for communities across the Thames Estuary.
Alan Holland, Chief Executive Officer, DP World London Gateway Logistics Park, said: “As the London Gateway Logistics Hub continues to grow, we want to ensure the infrastructure around it grows too. With The Hive now complete, we are creating a space where businesses can collaborate, employees can thrive and the local community can develop the skills needed to access new opportunities.
“London Gateway now supports more than 10,000 jobs through on-site employment and its role in the wider economy, and is already home to a growing community of some of the world’s leading businesses. The Hive gives that community a new place to come together. Alongside Thames Freeport, we are investing not only in the physical infrastructure of the site, but in the skills and amenities that will support its growth for many years to come.”
Stuart Rimmer, Interim Chief Executive Officer, Thames Freeport, said: “The completion of The Hive marks an important milestone for Thames Freeport and our partnership with DP World. This investment is about ensuring that the continued growth of London Gateway translates into real opportunities for local people and businesses, equipping the workforce with the skills needed to succeed in the industries of the future.
“By bringing together employers, training providers and local communities in one dedicated facility, The Hive will play a central role in supporting high-quality jobs, attracting investment and driving long-term economic growth across the Thames Estuary.”
Construction of The Hive began in October 2025, with the facility designed and built to the highest sustainability standards, and constructed using British steel. It has achieved BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ certification and an EPC ‘A+’ rating, reflecting DP World’s wider commitment to sustainable development across London Gateway.
Partners using the site will begin moving into and operating from the new facility in November. Earlier this year SEATS was announced as the Skills Partner for The Hive and will work alongside DP World, employers and regional partners to help businesses develop the skilled workforce they need today while preparing for the opportunities of tomorrow.
The Hive forms part of DP World’s broader commitment to investing in the infrastructure, innovation and skills that enable trade to flow more efficiently and create lasting economic opportunities.
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