The River Thames is an “underutilised transport goldmine”, according to the London Assembly Transport Committee.

In a letter to mayor of London Sadiq Khan, the committee argues the River Bus service, which runs from Woolwich, through central London and out to Hampton Court, should be given more support.

Recommendations to the mayor today include appointing a river ambassador to promote transport along the River Thames, ensuring more people know about the river services, the reduction of congestion around central piers and making boats more environmentally friendly.

Liberal Democrat London Assembly member Caroline Pidgeon, who is the chair of the committee, said: “What could be more charming than taking the Thames to work?

“London’s river has fantastic potential to enhance our transport network, but it is being underutilised.”

The River Bus stops at east London piers including Woolwich Ferry North Terminal, Masthouse Terrace, Canary Wharf and St Katherine.