Regeneration body extends lifespan until 2014

PlanningResource, 10 May 2007

Planning minister Yvette Cooper today announced that the Thurrock Thames Gateway Development Corporation in east London will now operate until 2014.

The body, which has special planning and land assembly powers, was created in 2003 and originally intended to operate until 2010.

Cooper said: "This extension will allow the corporation to continue its good work in regenerating Thurrock, and improving the aspirations and opportunities for those living and working in the area."

She said the extension would help attract private cash to the area and make land assembly through compulsory purchase orders better.

The extension was decided following a consultation exercise.

William McKee, chairman of the corporation, said: "The decision is most welcome and clearly recognises that the delivery of the corporation's vision for sustainable regeneration and growth in Thurrock requires a timetable that allows the corporation to properly address the complex series of urban regeneration issues that exists in Thurrock. "