Envoy appointed to spearhead ambitious plans for Thames Estuary

Kate Willard has been appointed as the first Thames Estuary Envoy and Chair of the Thames Estuary Growth Board.

Kate, who is currently director of partnership development with Stobart Group, will lead on plans to encourage growth in the estuary.

Ms Willard, said: “The Thames Estuary Growth Board has the opportunity to provide a clear and coherent voice to drive sustainable growth across this dynamic region.

“We will work to ensure we are listening to the communities, private and public sector partners who make up this great place and deliver cohesive leadership that helps shape an even more brilliant and shining place with international resonance.”

The announcement follows the Government’s response to the Thames Estuary 2050 Growth Commission report in 2019, which saw Government back ambitious plans to create 1.3 million jobs and generate an extra £190 billion for the local economy.