More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
Proposals for a tram linking Kent with Essex have won the backing of a college, business experts and even a group campaigning for a better deal for motorists.
Thames Gateway Tramlink's plan for the KenEx Tram to cross the Thames, from Swanscombe to Grays, has been backed by multiple organisations.
The idea has been welcomed by motoring pressure group FairFuelUK, South Essex College, business growth experts Locate in Kent and forklift dealer Acclaim Handling, which works on both sides of the river.
KenEx Tram is described as a sustainable public transport proposal for the heart of The Thames Estuary growth area.
If approved, it will connect Swanscombe, Gravesend, Ebbsfleet International and Grays in an attempt to create an integrated and enhanced local economy.
The proposed system would link Grays in Essex to Ebbsfleet and Bluewater, while an intersecting line would connect Gravesend to Dartford. Those behind the plan say it would help provide an "environmentally sound, efficient solution" to ease congestion around the Dartford Crossing and North Kent.
Founder of FairFuelUK, Howard Cox, said: "I see the cross-river link as a viable, much needed and credible public transport option, freeing road space and relieving local traffic congestion.
"This will be a win-win for all who want safe and healthy public transport that will support tough environmental targets.
"In contrast to the current draconian urban blockades being rolled out across the UK, our supporters will be delighted to see trams at the heart of a much-needed common sense long-term transport strategy."
South Essex College has also backed the project, recognising the potential boost it could get by bringing young people to study from across the river.
Operations director Mark Bentley said: "The cross-river tram would provide access for students domiciled in North Kent to innovative further and higher education programmes at our Thurrock campus.
"This transport link would also provide students on the Essex side of the river to access work experience and job placement opportunities with organisations such as the London Resort on the south bank.
"The Thames Gateway Tramlink in part will serve as a catalyst to curriculum development in our engineering provision here at the college.
"This project will influence changes in our rail engineering and digital signalling provision, as we will look to incorporate innovative skill development to serve the required light rail and tram infrastructure operation."
Major cross-river employer Acclaim Handling, which has offices in Kent and Essex, can see the advantages.
Chief executive Sam Woods said: "Customers come first at Acclaim and due to traffic congestion in South Essex and North Kent created by the Dartford road crossing, we cannot always guarantee the response times that our customers expect.
"Unlike a new road-only crossing, we see the tram link as removing car traffic and easing local road congestion allowing our engineers to provide better service to customers.
"We fully support the proposed sustainable KenEx cross-river tram and hope that this will be delivered soon."
Locate in Kent chief executive Gavin Clearly believes the tram link would create jobs, opportunities and growth in both areas.
He said: "With millions being spent on improved public transport and infrastructure, Kent is set to reap the rewards over the next decade in attracting jobs, opportunities, and growth.
"These projects will add to that sense of momentum, with improved links for communities on either side of the river a key part of plans to unlock the potential of the Thames Estuary region as a major hub for growth industries in the UK."
While actual construction designs and site details are not due for some time, Thames Gateway Tramlink is currently looking for feedback to help evolve the concepts.
