Thames Reach Airport Consortium

We are currently in talks with the Department of Transport to compare the proposal with other SERAS options for the Government to decide in the White Paper scheduled for November 2003.

There are also ongoing discussions with members of the aviation industry including the Star Alliance and global construction companies who are expressing an interest in a new-build hub in the Thames Estuary, subject to the degree of Government support for the airport and the proposed infrastructure.

One proposal suggests that the Government would lead the Lower Thames Tunnel and associated infrastructure works through PFIs with established construction companies, funded by tunnel tolls and tariffs together with an agreement on future tariffs payable by TRAC for the airport access, while TRAC would fund and undertake the construction and operation of the airport, unencumbered by the capital cost and implementation of the necessary access infrastructure.

> public promotion of the consortium

> accommodation of aviation industry requirements

> accommodation of political requirements

> accommodation of environmental safeguards

> initiation of the Lower Thames Tunnel