River transport firm Uber Boat by Thames Clippers has revealed it has bought the Gravesend Town Pier and pontoon from Gravesham Borough Council (GBC).
The new owners want to introduce a high-speed commuter river link from Gravesend to London – extending its operation from the capital into Kent for the first time.
An online announcement read: “We are thrilled to take ownership of Gravesend Town Pier.
“Please join us for a reception to celebrate this milestone, meet the senior management team and find out more about the future of River Bus services from this historic pier.”
No more details about the cost of the sale or the plans for the pier and services have been disclosed.
The proposed deal was approved by cabinet members in January and was delegated to officers to finalise the sale.
Speaking at the time, leader of GBC Cllr John Burden (Lab), said: “We have been looking at ways to secure its future in a way that benefits the whole community for some time.
“The sale to Thames Clippers safeguards this important community asset for future generations to admire and enjoy, while opening up new opportunities for strengthening Gravesend’s links to the River Thames.
“We have long-held aspirations to support river transportation from the town and while this sale does not guarantee rapid river links to London, it certainly makes their introduction more likely.
“We know Thames Clippers will be worthy and conscientious custodians of this important piece of Gravesend’s history.”
The council decided to sell the asset as running costs and continued to increase so it could redirect funding into essential services for the borough’s residents.
Fears were raised earlier this year that the sale would lead to “a monopoly” and force out other business, but these were dismissed by GBC.
A reception is being held at the pier for residents to find out more details on Monday, November 21, at 6.30pm until 8pm.
You can RSVP to confirm attendance by emailing rsvp@thamesclippers.com.
The pier is Grade–II listed and is the oldest cast iron pier of its kind in the world.
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