Use of the tidal Thames could be transformed over the next 20 years, according to the latest ‘Thames Vision’ issued by the Port of London Authority (PLA) recently. The PLA has been developing the Thames Vision with members of the public, river stakeholders and other organisations across London and the south east for the last ten months.
Thames Vision sets out six Goals and 24 Priority Actions that need to be taken to achieve these. Among the goals are the busiest ever port of London with 20 million passenger trips a year, more freight moved by river, the cleanest river since the Industrial Revolution, and more people than ever enjoying sport and recreation with a riverside which is a magnet for ramblers, historians, artists and others, whether living nearby, on the river or travelling from further afield
The 24 Priority Actions include improving the main navigation channels, reactivating safeguarded wharves and a long-term pier strategy, including new piers at Thamesmead, Erith, Greenhithe, Swanscombe, Grays and Tilbury. Sport opportunity zones along the river and the Thames Tideway Tunnel will be completed as planned.
Goal details include increasing cargo handling to 60-80 million tonnes a year (the 2014 figure was 44.5 million) and doubling the number of commuter and tourist passenger trips to reach 20 million.
PLA chief executive, Robin Mortimer said: “This is about opening our eyes to what the great River Thames can offer right in the heart of London and the South East.”
The consultation will last for 10 weeks and detailed information and how to feedback comments, can be found on the PLA website.
Thanks to Harry Arnold and Waterway Images for most of this report and images.
