Simon Hughes, MP for Bermondsey and Old Southwark, has outlined his vision for a new pier in Rotherhithe to support local growth and to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the sailing of the Mayflower.

Simon and local Liberal Democrats have met with representatives of Transport for London to argue the case for a new river pier and commuter service in  Rotherhithe to be included in TfL’s River Action Plan.

The pier has the backing of Liberal Democrat councillors and Robert Hulse, director of the  Brunel Museum.

“I believe it is vital we encourage development right along the river – from central locations such as Westminster to areas further east such as Rotherhithe in my own constituency,” said Simon Hughes.

“In 2020 it will be 400 years since the Mayflower set sail from Rotherhithe for Plymouth and on to New England. We should mark and celebrate this occasion with the construction of a new pier in Rotherhithe, which would connect Rotherhithe’s past with its future, by supporting local growth and tourism.

“The proposal has support from Liberal Democrat councillors, local employers and residents, and the Brunel Museum in Rotherhithe. I am now calling on the Mayor and Transport for London to develop detailed plans for this new pier. I am sure it can be a great success.”