A floating art space has arrived at its new home after leaving its mooring on the River Thames of eight years.

The Light Vessel 21 (LV21) is now docked in the water by Anchor Wharf, at The Historic Dockyard Chatham where it will stay for the next year.

Earlier this week, it was revealed the entertainment hub and performance facility was leaving Gravesend where it had become a landmark along the River Thames, opposite St Andrew’s Gardens.

It was claimed by Gravesham council that the historic bright red ship was relocating to Medway after it saw a reduction in openings to the public this year.

The local authority said the centre’s activities were limited to the Gravesham Light Festival in January and the Franklin Festival in August.

Before settling in Gravesend in 2016, the lightship was docked at Gillingham Pier and has now returned to the Towns.

It will temporarily be moored at Anchor Wharf before moving to its permanent home at Medway Riverfront.

Director of LV21, Päivi Seppälä, said: “We are delighted to be back in Medway after eight years to start a new exciting chapter in LV21’s creative journey.

“Mooring at the magnificent setting of Anchor Wharf, with LV21 surrounded by rich maritime heritage and other unique historic vessels, leisure and work boats, and people passionate about Medway’s maritime heritage, offers us the perfect platform to develop the next stage of the ship’s long-term future.”

Although, the Historic Dockyard Chatham is closed over the winter, works on the lightship will be completed to install a gangway to allow visitors aboard in the new year.

In the meantime, the ship will run events ashore including RiverSwell, a programme of events, exhibitions and workshops highlighting the importance of the River Medway, and Whose Hoo Heritage Festival.

The leader of Medway Council, Cllr Vince Maple, said: “It is brilliant to welcome the LV21 home. It is fantastic news for Medway and our cultural scene.

“We are proud of our rich maritime heritage in Medway. I look forward to seeing what is sure to be an exciting line-up of events and activities over the coming months.”

The chief executive of the Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust, Richard Morsley, added: “This remarkable lightship has a brilliant approach to blending arts and heritage and will stand as a beacon in Medway’s vibrant cultural offer.

“Its presence here not only enhances our maritime community but also emphasises the importance of the River Medway as a source of connection.”