DESPITE recent reports that the proposed development is under threat because of wildlife issues, Thurrock Council has issued an upbeat proclamation about the proposed London Resort leisure park on the Swanscome Peninsula, opposite Thurrock in North Kent.

It was recently revealed that the resort project has suffered a significant setback as the BBC and ITV had scrapped their involvement in plans to build the UK's largest theme park over ongoing wildlife concerns.

Initial proposals to build the London Resort on the peninsula had seen the broadcasters jump on board and sign image rights deals in the event the park went ahead.

However, last year the marshland where developers London Resort Company Holdings (LRCH) hope to build the £2.5 billion attraction was designated as a site of special scientific interest as it is home to many rare species, including a jumping spider.

The status granted by Natural England – the government's environmental advisory group – means any future plans must take into account the abundance of wildlife but does not preclude development from taking place.

BBC Studios, the commercial ventures arm of the corporation, has since confirmed it is no longer involved with the project.

However, LRCH continues to move ahead with the project and today (Monday, 21 March) Thurrock Council has issued a statement saying it is working collaboratively to explore mutual interests and benefits.

The council says it and LRCH have a shared vision for the borough and the wider region linked to the development of the resort.

The statement says the council will work alongside LRCH and partners to ensure social and economic opportunities, including infrastructure improvements such as a jetty in Grays linking the town directly to the resort, are realised as they work towards a shared vision of regeneration.

Thurrock Council leader Cllr Rob Gledhill, said: "We are determined to harness the Thames' potential and stop seeing the river as barrier but instead a key asset to support the local and wider economy including attracting more visitors to Thurrock. I'm looking forward to working closely with our partners LRCH to ensure the right infrastructure is in place for Thurrock and together we can all benefit from the explosion in jobs."

Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Strategic Planning and External Relationships, Cllr Mark Coxshall, said: "Thurrock is only a stone's throw away from what is set to be a world-class entertainment resort and by working together with LRCH we can make sure that this unique opportunity not only compliments our ambitious plans for Thurrock including the Grays Towns Board vision but also delivers additional prosperity for our residents and the right infrastructure to support growth, boost our economy, and create new local jobs opportunities.

"A ferry link in Grays would unlock extraordinary benefits to the town centre and whole of Thurrock that would see a huge surge in visitors to our shops, restaurants and local attractions."

PY Gerbeau, Chief Executive of LRCH added: "I am delighted to confirm that we are working with Thurrock Council to explore mutual interests and benefits. There are significant opportunities for the London Resort to work towards a shared vision of regeneration, helping to deliver transformative benefits within Thurrock and to the wider region."