5th April 2006

Market review and feasibility study for Thurrock Marina, River Thames, Essex, UK

Thurrock Thames Gateway Development Corporation (TTGDC) has confirmed the appointment of Marina Projects Ltd to undertake a Market Review and Feasibility Study into the leisure berthing opportunities along the Thurrock Riverside. Thurrock Riverside occupies a strategic location on the North bank of the River Thames. This stretch of the River Thames is navigable at all states of tide and provides sheltered water, direct access by river into Central London and access to the English Channel and numerous sailing grounds.

The detailed brief requires examination of the following key study areas:

• Market review including analysis of existing marina/moorings within the Thames Estuary plus a review of the wider market activity and trends.
• Assessment of the total number of berths to be considered for a viable marina in this location.
• Mix and type/size of berthing that might be accommodated at Thurrock including numbers of visitor berths.
• Identification of the preferred location for a marina with particular reviews at Tilbury, Grays and Purfleet — this to include reference to emerging masterplans where appropriate.
• A high level financial appraisal for the marina to include recommended berthing rates.
• Development of an initial ‘concept plan’ for a marina layout and associated land take requirements. The concept plan to identify the key marine related activities and access links.
• Assessment of the scope for introducing educational activities and training as part of the new marina development.
• High level review/assessment of secondary employment opportunities that a marina of a given size might expect to support.
• Identification of the existing environmental designations that are likely to affect the marina proposals.
• Recommendations for additional studies.