Port of London Authority

As London International Shipping Week starts (Monday, 7 September), new Port of London Authority (PLA) data shows the tidal Thames is thriving, both economically, with over 40,000 jobs linked to port operations, and also in terms of its amenity value, which is worth over £100 million in health benefits for residents alone who enjoy 10 million bike rides and walks on the towpath every year.

 The data was revealed by two research studies into the economic impact of port, passenger and other operations on the Thames; and a first-of-its-kind assessment of the river’s ‘amenity’ value. The Thames is home to the UK’s second biggest port, the busiest inland waterway in the country with ten million passenger trips and five million tonnes of freight moved between river terminals every year. It’s a vital supply line keeping families across London and the south east supplied with food, fuel and life’s essentials; a haven for nature and a centre for sports and recreation.

 PLA chief executive, Robin Mortimer, explains: “We knew the Thames was economically important and this data underlines that, as it supports over 43,000 jobs and generates over £4 billion for the economy. What’s really new with this research is the first attempt to gauge the less tangible, amenity value of the river – for example how the Thames supports the health of people using the river and towpath for sport and recreation; and how this globally recognised river contributes to tourism spend in the capital.” 

 The PLA commissioned the research as part of a year long project to develop a Vision for the future of the tidal Thames, the 95 miles of river that stretches from Teddington Lock through the heart of the capital to the North Sea. Discussing the findings at the launch of the reports at Tower Pier today were Perry Glading, chief operating officer of Forth Ports, which owns the Port of Tilbury; CBI London regional director, Lucy Haynes; and Thames Festival director, Adrian Evans.

 “This research underlines the importance of the Thames as a magnet for both Londoners and visitors to the capital. Riverside attractions are now welcoming 23.4 million visits a year, generating jobs for almost 100,000 people in riverside wards,” said Adrian Evans. “Totally Thames, our month-long season of river and riverfront sport and cultural events attracts over 2 million people to the Thames, both adding significantly to local riverside economies and allowing the river to delight and inspire, enhancing quality of life.”