A ground-breaking ceremony took place at the Port of Tilbury today (Thursday, 26 March) as a prelude to the eventual opening of the Docks' smaller dry dock as a repair and maintenance hub for Uber Uber Boat and Thames Clippers

Set for completion next year the facility, which will utilise a crane to hoist boats from the water, will offer local employment, including apprenticeships for young would-be engineers.

Thurrock MP Jen Craft attended the ceremony and spoke of the benefits the facility will bring to the borough and also the environmental benefits of the new planned electric fleet.

The purpose-built facility, being developed by Southbay Civil Engineering, will transform how the company maintains its 24-vessel fleet

Ahead of the event Uber Boats said: "The new facility represents a significant investment in the future of the River Thames and will bring skilled local jobs and long-term economic opportunities to Tilbury and the wider Thurrock area.

"The official launch of work celebrates Tilbury's vital role in supporting London's growing river transport network.

"The creation of the maintenance facility continues Uber Boat by Thames Clippers' commitment to creating employment pathways and vocational maritime training including partnerships with local education providers, including South Essex College and Thames Skills Academy. Apprenticeship positions within Uber Boat by Thames Clippers have been created as a result of the development, helping young people gain access to careers in the maritime and engineering sectors, strengthening the local skills base and supporting the next generation of river transport professionals." 

Every vessel in the fleet is required to undergo annual essential safety and maintenance checks. The new dock will have capacity for up to five vessels on land and two in the water simultaneously, significantly increasing operational efficiency and resilience. At the heart of the development is a new dedicated travel hoist, which will allow vessels to be lifted safely and efficiently in all weather conditions.

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Currently, lifting vessels from the water relies on cranes, which cannot operate safely in high winds. The introduction of this travel hoist removes this constraint, allowing vessels to be rotated quickly and reliably year-round.

MP Jen Crafy with Sean Collins, CEO of Uber Boat by Thames Clippers,

Sean Collins, CEO of Uber Boat by Thames Clippers, said: "It is not just about breaking ground on a new facility, it's an investment in people, skills and the long-term future of river transport. Tilbury will play a critical role in maintaining and supporting our fleet for decades to come.

"This project strengthens our ability to operate efficiently and sustainably, while creating meaningful employment and training opportunities for the local community."

Mia James, an engineering apprentice at Uber Boat by Thames Clippers said "I chose my apprenticeship with Uber Boat by Thames Clippers as I knew from a young age I wanted a hands on role.

"What I enjoy most is the dynamic environment, there are new challenges to overcome everyday and you get a completely unique perspective of London. Being part of a team that keeps the city moving on the water is an incredibly fulfilling way to learn the ropes of the transport and tourism industry."

Engineering apprentice Mia James was among those welcomed at the port today by Port of Tilbury COO Paul Dale (right).

Antony Ballantyne, Operations Director, Southbay Civil Engineering Limited said "Southbay are delighted to be part of this key infrastructure project, which will help to ensure the River Thames remains an essential part of UK's transport network. In constructing this dry dock facility, we are committed to investing within the local economy through utilising the regional supply chain, and through the creation of employment opportunities.

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"The project will allow us to display our full capabilities as one of the UK's leading marine civil engineering contractors'.

Paul Dale, Chief Operating Officer of Forth Ports said: "Today's ground-breaking ceremony builds upon our long-standing and multi-faceted relationship with Uber Boat by Thames Clippers.

"This bespoke facility adds another important string to our bow, strengthening our capabilities and supporting the future growth of river-based passenger and freight transport. It also creates valuable local employment opportunities, representing an important investment in the region for years to come."