29 November 2007
Unlocking economic potential will play a major part in creating "thriving communities" in the Thames Gateway, the PM has said.
In a speech at the Thames Gateway Forum 2007, Mr Brown said that the Government hoped to see as many as 225,000 jobs generated in the area to 2016. Around 160,000 new homes will be built along with 27 new or refurbished schools and eight new hospital developments in a £9 billion programme.
The PM said:
"Our aim is to help create thriving communities with new homes, new jobs and a better environment. And we know that the starting point - indeed the fundamental precondition - must be to unlock the Gateway’s economic potential."
To enable economic development the PM revealed details of transport and infrastructure improvements, including £200 million for attracting new businesses and £100 million for improving road and rail links. Express services will be put in place for commuters and the transport infrastructure will be joined to key lines such as the London Underground and the planned Crossrail development.
Echoing his comments on the importance of education and training, the PM pointed to an £850 million investment in education facilities in the area and the expected creation of around 13,500 apprenticeships and 10,000 college places. Development plans were part of a "wider story" on housing, with three million provision across the UK, he said.
Mr Brown said:
"We know that economic growth, more businesses and more jobs will create demand for more homes. And what is happening in the Thames Gateway is only part of a wider story on housing where the Government is determined to do more to meet the rising aspirations of the British people for better and more affordable homes."
The Department for Communities and Local Government published a detailed delivery plan on the next three years of the Thames Gateway today. On 23 November the Department launched the Planning Bill, draft proposals aimed at streamlining planning procedures for major development projects.
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