Local MPs Stephen Metcalfe and Jackie Doyle-Price visited London Gateway to see the construction work and offer their support for what is the largest employment creation project in the UK.
The two Conservative MPs met with Simon Moore CEO of London Gateway and witnessed the new jobs being created as part of the work to develop what will become the UK’s first deep-sea container port for over 20 years.
During the visit, the MPs discussed local impacts of the project on the surrounding infrastructure. Stephen Metcalfe, Member of Parliament for South Basildon and East Thurrock, said: “I’m delighted to see the start of construction of the port take place and see first hand the real economic benefits being delivered to South Essex. I hope to ensure that the local community makes the most of the opportunities this development presents”.
Jackie Doyle-Price, Member of Parliament for Thurrock, said: “London Gateway is going to deliver massive economic benefits for the long term and is an excellent use of the former oil refinery site; it will provide many thousands of jobs for local people in Thurrock and I welcome DP World’s investment. This underlines Thurrock’s role as a major logistics hub for the UK.
She added: “I will be making representations to ministers to ensure that the future impacts on local highways will be well managed.”
Simon Moore, CEO for London Gateway, said: “I’m very pleased Jackie and Stephen were able to visit us and see for themselves our efforts to regenerate 1,500 acres of disused brownfield land. We are working with local and national government to ensure this area is returned to industrial activity and we will continue to work with local leaders and the wider community throughout construction and delivery”.
