The Government has pledged its support for ambitious plans to create 1.3 million jobs in the Thames Estuary by 2050.

The proposals aim to generate an extra £190 billion for the region’s economy, build new homes and enhance transport links.

The vision, drawn up by the Thames Estuary 2050 Growth Commission, has been backed by Communities Secretary James Brokenshire.

He put forward a number of new measures to support the plans, which include £1m to establish a new Thames Estuary Growth Board, which will oversee and drive the project.

The Government has also pledged £4.85m to enhance transport services between Abbey Wood and Ebbsfleet, and a cabinet-level ministerial champion to act as an advocate for the region.

Mr Brokenshire, who represents Old Bexley and Sidcup, said: “The Thames Estuary has long been a gateway to the UK economy and has enormous untapped potential, which has the power to benefit those that live and work in the area. Having considered the recommendations of the Thames Estuary 2050 Growth Commission, I have announced a number of steps we are taking to unlock an even brighter future for the Estuary’s economy, marking the beginning of a new and bolder approach by this Government to support the area.”

The commission was set up in March 2016 to develop north Kent, east London and south Essex.

It in its report, published in June last year, recommendations included extending Crossrail to Ebbsfleet to link up with the High Speed 1 rail line and mainland Europe.

It went on to advise government to fund preliminary work on the project to the tune of £20m.

The Government’s response is an important first step towards delivering these plans.

Three new Thames crossings were also recommended by 2030, with potential interchange points at Basildon and the Medway Towns. Speaking in June last year, Dartford council leader Cllr Jeremy Kite (Con) said Crossrail links would be a “game-changer” for commuters.

He added that housebuilding cannot continue to be forced on the local community without significant development in its infrastructure, which includes schools, heath services and transport.

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