THURROCK Council's leading regeneration councillor Mark Coxshall has spoken of his optimism for the future of Grays and Tilbury towns – while the authority has released images of the improvements it would like to see as part of a multi-million investment in both areas.

Cllr Coxshall was speaking after he made a presentation to the council's Cabinet about the Grays and Tilbury Town Boards, which have been set up to obtain government funding for regeneration from the Towns Fund which was set up in 2019 to drive economic regeneration and deliver long-term economic and productivity growth in 101 town across the country.

Grays and Tilbury were selected as key towns and included in the project. The boards were then set up and are setting up a vision and strategy to introduce improvements in their towns. Each could potentially receive up to £25 million.

At last week's cabinet meeting councillors approved a https://democracy.thurrock.gov.uk/documents/s30959/Town%20Funds%20Update%20and%20Next%20Steps.pdf to progress plans without delay, "building on momentum and ensuring delivery for both towns".

If funding is secured, Grays could benefit from investment to open up the riverside while proposals for Tilbury include a new youth facility to be delivered with OnSide who have a track record of delivering youth services across the country, investment in the riverside to restore the beach and a possible passenger jetty and a river bus service into London.

Cllr Coxshall said: "This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to harness significant government investment to make lasting, positive changes for residents who live and work in Grays and Tilbury. We have listened to the local community who helped shaped these proposals and I thank everyone who has shared their views with us.

"In Grays, there is a clear emphasis on reconnecting the Town with the riverfront and the station gateway so that residents and visitors of all ages have more reason to stay and play. Tilbury's Civic Square will be revitalised and plans could see a new first-class youth facility to address long-standing calls for increased support for our younger residents."

To find out more about the proposed plans visit the Grays and Tilbury town board websites where you can also provide feedback to help shape further plans.