River bus pier extension at Passenger Ferry Landing Stage, Tilbury

“This full planning application, submitted by Thurrock Council, seeks approval for the provision of an extension to Tilbury Pier to facilitate a new River bus service. The extension is formed of a new floating pontoon, dolphin piles and a connecting link to the existing pier structure.”

“The Tilbury Town Fund bid seeks to revitalise Tilbury’s Riverside and strengthen its connection to the town centre. This will be achieved by increasing activity in the area and enhancing its existing heritage assets. A central feature of the redevelopment is the installation of a new pontoon, linked to the current Tilbury Landing Stage, designed to support expanded river passenger services. The upgraded pier will enable river bus access to central London.”

“The landing stage is located at Tilbury Riverside, adjacent to the London International Cruise Terminal. Tilbury Riverside Station is grade II* Listed and includes the baggage hall, the station, the floating landing stage and linking walkways. The Site is also within the setting of the grade II World’s End Inn (List UID: 1111632) and the Scheduled Monument Tilbury Fort (List UID: 1021092).”

“The north of the site is within a Primary Industrial and Commercial land designation within the Core Strategy.”

“Reference Proposal Decision 24/00754/TBC Planning application for the provision of an extension to Tilbury Pier to facilitate a new River bus service. The extension is formed of a new floating pontoon, dolphin piles and a connecting link to the existing pier structure. Pending Committee Decision 24/00540/FUL and 24/00541/LBC Works to building comprising: 1.”

“(TRAAC) building. New vehicle crossover. Use of building for mixed use comprising event and market space, lettable units for creative uses, cafe purposes and dance studio and education space. 23/30023/PMIN Proposed extension to the existing Tilbury Terminal pier to facilitate new connections to a river bus service Advice Given 17/00995/LBC Replace existing timber dolphin with a replacement steel dolphin of a design that matches the existing corresponding dolphin.”

“In principle, the proposed development is considered acceptable. The site is already in active use for river transport purposes, and the nature of the proposal is consistent with this established use. There are no identified land use objections, and the extension would support further employment opportunities adjacent to an existing employment area…”

“Moreover, the development aligns with wider strategic transport objectives. The use of the River Thames for passenger transport is supported in Thurrock’s transport planning framework. An update to the Borough’s Transport Strategy, discussed by the Planning, Transport and Regeneration Overview and Scrutiny Committee in February 2023, includes a stated ambition to "strengthen the river as a transport artery." The strategy promotes the development of riverside stations…”

“The council’s heritage advisor considers the scheme will result in a low level of less than substantial harm to the significance of the listed Riverside Station. This harm arises from alterations to the historic form and appearance of the landing stage, which has remained largely unchanged since the early-to-mid 20th century.”

“In conclusion, the proposal is considered to result in less than substantial harm to the significance of the Grade II* listed Riverside Station, and this harm must be weighed against the public and heritage benefits of the scheme, in accordance with the NPPF and the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990. Subject to conditions securing…”

“No objection, subject to detailed design considerations. Historic England acknowledges that the proposed pontoon extension will result in a degree of harm to the significance of the Grade II* listed Tilbury Riverside Station landing stage, due to changes to its historic form. However, the harm is considered limited and mitigated by the proposal’s subservient design and reversible construction method.”

“Previously raised concerns about bollards and balustrades have been addressed, though the illuminated signage and balustrade design still require careful control via conditions. The lack of repair or restoration works to the existing structure is considered a missed opportunity to enhance heritage value. Conditions are recommended to secure high- quality materials, lighting, signage details, and balustrade design…”

“There were no further questions or debate from members.”

“Recommendation That the Chief Planning Officer be authorised to GRANT LISTED BUILDING CONSENT for the development, subject to conditions.”

“Samples of the materials to be used on the external finishes of the development including for the decking, waiting shelters, handrails and balustrade, shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the local planning authority prior to their first use on site. The development shall be implemented in accordance with the approved details and permanently maintained as such.”

“Prior to the installation of any exterior fixtures and fittings including lighting and signage, details of their location, design and materials shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the local planning authority. Development shall be implemented in accordance with the approved details and shall be permanently maintained as such.”