Gravesend to Tilbury Ferry: Consultation launched over service

The ferry can carry foot passengers and bicycles

A consultation has been launched over a closure-threatened boat service which links Gravesend and Tilbury across the River Thames.

The ferry has operated with financial support from local councils since 2000, after the previous operator pulled out.

But after Thurrock Council stopped funding the service last year, Kent County Council (KCC) said it could not afford to pay a higher cost.

Thurrock Council has been approached for comment.

KCC said it wants to understand the popularity of the service and how it is used before any decision is made.

The consultation is due to close on 4 February.

Speaking at Prime Minister's Questions on Wednesday, the Conservative MP for Thurrock, Jackie Doyle-Price, said "so many people are using that ferry service to come to work in Tilbury docks and the incumbent expansion of the Thames Freeport".

She asked the prime minister to encourage the local authorities to continue to fund the service.

In response, Mr Sunak said "he would encourage" local councils to "consider the importance of cross river transport".

A standard adult day return ticket costs £5.50 on the service, with sailings between 05.40 GMT and 19.10 GMT on weekdays and Saturdays, with no service on Sundays or public holidays.

Over 100,000 passenger journeys are made every year on the ferry service.