A new Economic Development Investment Plan has been launched by three regional development agencies in the South East of England to transform the Thames Gateway into a thriving business, research and innovation hub and a vibrant place to live.

The investment programme was unveiled by the London Development Agency, East of England Development Agency and South East of England Development Agency in partnership with the Department for Communities and Local government.

Building on existing investment in and around the Gateway, the programme will help underpin a growing knowledge economy in the Thames Gateway with higher value jobs and help build a more productive and competitive region.

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At the same time it will help people in the local communities benefit from new work opportunities.

Housing Minister Caroline Flint said: "I welcome the commitment of the three Greater South East Regional Development Agencies to work with the Government towards a shared vision of the Thames Gateway.

"The Economic development Investment Plan will enable the delivery of a knowledge-driven, well connected, globally competitive region. It also demonstrates how economic growth and environmental sustainability can work together."

Arup Director Peter Head has been appointed to be the champion for innovation and enterprise in the Thames Gateway.

Mr Head leads Arup's Planning and Integrated Urbanism business and is well known nationally and internationally as an expert in environmental development.

His role will be to ensure the area is at the forefront of developing new environmental technologies, products and services to help it become the UK's first eco-region and the first choice for investment by businesses, especially those with an environmental focus.

The plan also includes environmental measures such as an extensive retro-fitting programme for existing buildings in the Gateway to improve their energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

(JM)