Plans for a new riverboat pier in Rotherhithe to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the sailing of the Mayflower have received a favourable mention – but no promise of funds – from the Government in the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement.

The government will also discuss plans for a Growth Zone in Croydon, subject to value for money, and continues to support flourishing culture funded through local channels, including the proposal to construct a new pier in Rotherhithe.

“Our campaign to build a new pier in Rotherhithe is gathering momentum,” said Simon Hughes MP – who first went public with the proposal back in March.

“I was pleased to see the Chancellor of the Exchequer mention it in today’s Autumn Statement. Although we are six years away from the 400th anniversary of the sailing of the Mayflower from England to America, if we are going to have a significant lasting memorial then it is important that plans are in place soon, so that the pier can be in use by commuters, local residents and visitors.

“The Mayflower sailed from Rotherhithe, and its crew came from the area – so it is absolutely right that Rotherhithe be a central part of the celebrations in 2020 and I will keep working to make this happen.”