RESIDENTS are being invited to a meeting next month – and subsequent online gathering – to discus the future of the Thames riverside in the town.

The Grays Town Fund Board, a grouping set up in conjunction with Thurrock Council to manage change in the area and administer government funding, is looking at improving access to the river from the rest of the town.

Plans suggested include creating a new 'riverfront destination' possibly including a maritime activity centre and jetty and Thurrock Council is looking at the technical and design work required  in order to progress these ideas and establish business cases.

The fund board already has £19.9 million earmarked to spend and its chair, Justin Thomas, director of development at NewRiver REIT which owns Grays Shopping Centre, says: "This funding will provide much-needed enhancements to the environment and public realm in Grays. The projects proposed have the ability to accelerate the transformation that is already happening in Grays, creating lasting social and economic impact for its residents, businesses and visitors for generations to come."

Thurrock Council's acting leader and the cabinet member for regeneration, strategic planning and external relationships, Cllr Mark Coxshall, adds: "This is an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to transform the town into the leisure heart of Thurrock, making Grays a healthier and more attractive place to live, work, learn and play.

"Thanks to the government's Towns Fund we are in a position to deliver game-changing regeneration across the whole town, future-proofing the economy and creating a new leisure destination for the whole of Thurrock to enjoy."

Residents are invited to attend Thurrock Yacht Club on Monday (3 October) from 5.30 to 7pm to view and discuss plans for the riverside area. Email [email protected] for further information or to confirm your attendance stating the number of people attending and if you represent an organisation or are a member of the community.

If you can't make it for the 5.30pm start you are welcome to drop in when you are available.

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The yacht club can be found on  Kilverts Wharf, off Argent Street (RM17 6JF). Parking is available at Thames Road Car Park, charges apply, or Grays train station is just a 10 minute walk away.

An online session will be hosted on Wednesday, 5 October from 5.30 to 7pm for those unable to attend on the Monday. Email [email protected] to obtain the Zoom details.