A floating cultural hub has been permitted to moor on the River Thames permanently.

The Light Vessel 21 (LV21) has temporarily docked along the water opposite St Andrew’s Gardens, in Gravesend, since 2017 and is used as an arts and events space and performance facility.

Gravesham council sought permission to change the use of the foreshore to allow a vessel to permanently moor there for learning and “non-residential” uses.

LV21 provides a cultural focus for the quayside forming part of the local authority’s regeneration strategy as it seeks to reinforce Gravesend as a riverside heritage town.

According to the submitted planning statement, the plans would help the council achieve this.

It added: “The proposals would represent a significant benefit to the area’s cultural heritage and tourism and would only impact positively upon the key features of the conservational areas.”

The plans stated it would also bring more footfall and spending at businesses by providing a visual interest along the river, highlight the town’s maritime history and continue providing a platform for local artists and performers.

As the applicant is Gravesham council, the scheme was discussed at the local authority’s planning committee meeting last week where it was argued the historic ship is a “crucial venue”.

Speaking in favour, Mark Whitehouse from Gravesham Grapevine, which publicises events in the borough, said it is “essential [that] assets remain in key locations” if the art scene is to continue to “flourish”.

He added: “The council’s investment in St George’s Arts Centre, Fourth Portal, light festival and the Fringe is helping enormously in putting Gravesend on the map.

”LV21 is a crucial venue with the ongoing development of Gravesham’s cultural community. It is a link between the past and the future and a unique environment to educate and inspire young people.”

Councillor Samir Jassal (Con) voted for the plans. He said: “I think it is a great idea. It is frankly a good thing, it certainly brings people in.”

Agreeing, councillor Peter Scollard (Lab) added the ship is “part of Gravesham’s history now” and a popular feature of the town.

The plans were approved allowing one vessel to permanently moor at the site.

To see more planning applications and other public notices for your area, click here.

Built-in 1963, LV21 is a 40-metre long, eight-metre wide, steel-hulled, red lightship and was retired from service in 2008.