Thurrock Council and London Resort Company Holdings (LRCH) are working collaboratively to explore mutual interests and benefits for a shared vision for Thurrock and the wider region.
LRCH is proposing to develop a world-class, sustainable, next generation entertainment resort known as the 'London Resort', on the banks of the River Thames.
The council will work alongside LRCH and partners to ensure social and economic opportunities, including infrastructure improvements such as a jetty in Grays linking the town directly to the resort, are realised as they work towards a shared vision of regeneration.
Leader of Thurrock Council, Cllr Rob Gledhill, said: "We are determined to harness the Thames's potential and stop seeing the river as barrier but instead a key asset to support the local and wider economy including attracting more visitors to Thurrock. I'm looking forward to working closely with our partners LRCH to ensure the right infrastructure is in place for Thurrock and together we can all benefit from the explosion in jobs."
Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Strategic Planning and External Relationships, Cllr Mark Coxshall, said: "Thurrock is only a stone's throw away from what is set to be a world-class entertainment resort and by working together with LRCH we can make sure that this unique opportunity not only compliments our ambitious plans for Thurrock including the Grays Towns Board vision but also delivers additional prosperity for our residents and the right infrastructure to support growth, boost our economy, and create new local jobs opportunities.
"A ferry link in Grays would unlock extraordinary benefits to the town centre and whole of Thurrock that would see a huge surge in visitors to our shops, restaurants and local attractions."
PY Gerbeau, Chief Executive of London Resort Company Holdings, said: "I am delighted to confirm that LRCH are working with Thurrock Council to explore mutual interests and benefits. There are significant opportunities for the London Resort to work towards a shared vision of regeneration, helping to deliver transformative benefits within Thurrock and to the wider region."