Formed in 2001, the Thames Gateway Kent Partnership (TGKP) is a partnership of the private and public sectors within Kent including Dartford, Gravesham, Medway and Swale.
It is one of three similar partnerships in the Thames Gateway – the other two covering the London Gateway area (Thames Gateway London Partnership) and South Essex (Thames Gateway South Essex).
The three partnerships come together to form the Thames Gateway Strategic Group which leads the strategic co-ordination of the Gateway, championing the interests of the area and driving delivery.
The Thames Gateway Kent Partnership works to:
1. work with local communities and leaders to address issues where a coordinated approach is essential for realising North Kent
2. draw together a framework for investment in Thames Gateway Kent in a ‘light touch’ way to provide a clear and up to date picture of key investment priorities;
3. co-ordinate presentation of North Kent’s investment needs and help maximise synergies;
4. promote Thames Gateway Kent to Government, regional agencies and other bodies to help shape policies, plans and investment decisions affecting the area;
Its Partnership Board, chaired by the private sector, includes representatives from the North Kent local authorities and local businesses.
Observers include the South East England Development Agency, the Homes & Communities Agency, the Environment Agency, representatives from Higher and Further Education, and a Member of Parliament.