Thames set for major growth

15 december 2015 - Use of the Thames could be transformed over the next 20 years, according to the latest Thames Vision publication issued yesterday by the Port of London Authority (PLA). The Thames Vision Goals and Priority Actions report sets out six Goals and 24 Priority Actions that need to be taken to achieve the goals. Among the goals are: the busiest ever Port of London; 20 million passenger trips a year; more goods moved by river; the cleanest river since the Industrial Revolution; and more people than ever enjoying sport and recreation.

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. The Goals and Priority Actions that have emerged are at the heart of a plan to develop the Thames over the next 20 years. “Today we kick off a ten-week consultation on the Goals and Actions needed to make the most of the Thames,” said PLA chief executive, Robin Mortimer. “When we started this project in March we were sure there was untapped potential in this great river.

 What we’ve found, working with hundreds of people and more than 70 organisations, has surpassed our expectations. “The cargo port the biggest it’s ever been and doubling the number of passenger trips on the river are great goals to aim for. We can combine this with environmental improvement and drawing more people to the river to enjoy sport and cultural attractions. This is about opening our eyes to what the great River Thames can offer right in the heart of London and the South East.”