As Ministerial Champion for the Thames Estuary, I was delighted to receive final confirmation this week that Thames Freeport has received final government approval and can now start operating fully. This is an important landmark for Thames Freeport and the wider Freeport programmes involvement in the Government’s economic strategy. It is my hope this will be a significant step in connecting and growing our region.

The Freeport is an economic zone located in the Thames Estuary and operates out of the Port of London, the UK’s largest port. With 1,700 acres of development land, it is a prime location for Thames Freeport to be able to access Europe’s largest consumer market and connect to 18 million people. Today’s announcement reinforces the great work that is already in place to boost the speed of investment, with the Freeport already starting to build growth, generating over 500 new jobs, and six new businesses joining its sites. It also recognises Thames Freeport as a centre of innovation, decarbonised fuels, smart technology, and light freight on the river Thames and the Thames Estuary.

A partnership between several companies, including Ford, Forth Ports Limited and DP World, Thames Freeport will support Thames Estuary businesses with over £4.6 billion in new public and private investment, and the creation of over 21,000 new jobs and many more across supply chains. Significant investment in training and skills will contribute to the further levelling-up of the communities and businesses in both the Thames Estuary, East London and South Essex.

I have attached below a copy of a letter I received from my ministerial colleague, Dehenna Davison MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, updating me on the Freeport’s approval.