Two new reports show 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 Thames path
every year.

The reports, commissioned to feed
into a year-long project to develop
a Vision for the future of the tidal
Thames, look at the economic
impact of port, passenger and
other operations on the river; and a

first-of-its kind assessesment of
the river’s ‘amenity’ value.
PLA chief executive, Robin
Mortimer, explains about the
research:

“The figures shed light on the vital
role the river plays in millions of
people’s lives. 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 Thames path for sport and
recreation; and how this globally
recognised river contributes to
tourism spend in the capital.”
“This understanding will help us as
we work with users and others with
an interest in the river, to develop a
Vision for the Thames for the next
20 years, ensuring that it is enjoyed
by more people for trade, travel,
leisure and sport.”

The research showed that £1
billion of new investment is
planned for Thames port and
marine operations over the next
five years. New investments
include two new fast ferries for
MBNA Thames Clippers which are
due to be delivered this month, a
new engine line at Ford’s
Dagenham plant, Stolthaven’s new
bitumen import facility and the
continued development of London
Gateway Port.

The Economic Impact report was
completed by SQW Limited.
Oxford Economics completed the
Thames’ Amenity Value study: