A CONFERENCE is to take place in Grays in the early days of September to discuss plans to create a tram network in the town – which could link to Kent and eventually spread across the borough.

The conference, which has been delayed because of Covid-19, will take place at South Essex College in the heart of the town and is open to all interested parties.

It has been organised by Thames Gateway Tramlink, promoters of the KenEx tramway project and will take place on Saturday, 11 September.

Tramlink says: "A full programme of industry professionals has been scheduled to provide an insight into this modern, sustainable form of transport which is seen as an essential part of any integrated public transport system tackling the problems of connectivity, climate change and pollution.

"Among key figures in the tram and transport sector speaking at the conference will be Andrew Braddock, Vice-President of the Light Rail Transit Association; Tim Kendell, Technical Director, LRTA; Mike England, Director, Transport, Iceni Projects; Giles Atkinson, Project Director, Egis Rail; Daniel Giblin, Independent transport consultant and Mark Bentley, Operations Director, South Essex College."

The tram proposal would initially connect Dartford, Swanscombe, Gravesend, Ebbsfleet International and Grays, with further links planned north of the Thames including route to Lakeside and Stanford-le-Hope.

The proposal has been reported on previously by Thurrock Nub News and last year it was welcomed by Thurrock Council leader, Cllr Rob Gledhill, who said: ""This is an exciting project that had great possibilities and I look forward to seeing the plans as they develop."

Paul Rowen, chair of the Light Rail Transit Association, said: " We are pleased to support this conference, which will help to inform politicians, local authorities and the general public in this area of significant development and expansion of the many health, environmental and social benefits of trams."

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Doors open 9.30am with the event due to close at 3.30pm. Refreshments and a light lunch is provided.

Cost and further details can be found on the KenEx website: www.kenextram.co.uk.

Tickets can be obtained through Eventbrite via this link.