This,the interests claim,will block the port’s access to the three Class One railroads that convene near the site – “a major and unique advantage for the port”.

Plans are to develop the Port of Philadelphia into a major US East Coast container facility with the potential of employing some 175,000 people and handling more than 3.5m containers annually.

Two major American terminal operators and an investment firm have already expressed an interest in developing and operating container handling facilities under the new port development plan.

During recent hearings Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell aides indicated he would reconsider the FDC relocation if legitimate operators showed interest in the Southport project.