SUPPORTERS of a project to regenerate the Port of Tilbury's historic riverside station are celebrating today (Wednesday, 9 October) after it was confirmed an application for a grant of almost four and a half million pounds has been successful.

The news that the project will get £4, 478,310 was confirmed by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, ahead of the anniversary of the National Lottery's 30^th birthday on 19 November.

The station will become home to an exhibition centre and facility to be enjoyed by the people of Thurrock and beyond.

The total is in excess of the original application planned by the Tilbury on the Thames Trust working in partnership with the Port of Tilbury and supported by the Tilbury Riverside Project, which involved public consultation reported on Thurrock Nub News a year ago.

The scheme will transform the iconic Grade II* listed station and surroundings into a vibrant community hub, complete with a café, outdoor seating, creative lets, and an exhibition space that celebrates the rich history of Tilbury.

Paul Dale, Chair of Tilbury on the Thames Trust and CEO of Forth Ports, said: "The Port of Tilbury is a gateway to the world along the River Thames, and we are proud of our maritime heritage and trade.

"The news that we have received National Heritage Lottery funding is very exciting, Tilbury on the Thames Trust have had a vision for the Tilbury Riverside Station in partnership with The Port for many years, and now this funding will bring the station back to life ensuring the local stories are told and preserving the rich history of the Riverside Station for generations to come."

Eilish McGuinness, Chief Executive of The National Lottery Heritage Fund said: "This wonderful project demonstrate the astonishing breadth of heritage that people value and want to pass onto future generations."