SOME of the money secured in the summer for sustainable transport and cycling improvements across the borough will be used to finish the public way between Thurrock’s two historic forts – Coalhouse and Tilbury.

Cllr Cathy Kent – Thurrock Council’s representative on the Coalhouse Fort Project – asked a question at full council on Wednesday seeking assurances that the funding issues facing the council would not impact on plans.

She asked: “The Coalhouse Fort Project, and others, have long wanted to see the completion of the Two Forts Walk, between Coalhouse and Tilbury Forts. Given the scale of funding cuts the council is facing over the next three years can the portfolio holder give any hope that this important initiative can be completed?”

Originally the question was asked of the late portfolio holder for transportation, Cllr Andy Smith, so it was answered in his stead by Council Leader, Cllr John Kent.

He replied: “It is good to be able to report that after years of asking, the end is in sight.

“Despite the funding issues we face, as part of the Local Growth Fund announcement in the summer improvements to the Two Forts Walk have been approved.

“The business case which supported the successful £5 million bid included a package of measures to develop the Thames Riverfront route from Purfleet to Stanford-le-Hope and Corringham including work which will address gaps in the Two Forts Way section.

“This will look at providing improved access over the sea wall and connecting existing sections to provide a complete route from Tilbury Fort to Coalhouse Fort – and back, of course.”

He added: “The importance of the Two Forts Way is shown by its inclusion in the recently opened Thames Estuary Path which provides a 29-mile walking route from Tilbury, through Stanford and Corringham, all the way to Leigh-on-Sea.

“The Local Growth Fund monery will come on stream from 2016, and our planning and transportation directorate will be inviting stakeholders to work with us to draw up detailed implementation plans later this year.”

Cllr Kent also said the council would also look at ways of ensuring some of the Local Growth Fund money targeted at cycling improvements in Thurrock was used on the Two Forts Way scheme.