Bid to move British Airways Concorde from Heathrow to the River Thames in London

A fundraiser has been launched in a bid to put Concorde on the River Thames next to the London Eye.

Paul James and Club Concorde are trying to raise £1 million to secure the supersonic jet, which is owned by British Airways and currently sits at London Heathrow.

They say on their Gofundme page: "This is a story about a group of Concorde supporters who are trying to save the Concorde at Heathrow Airport from a slow death, at the same time creating a new exciting life as London's latest tourist attraction, displayed on a purpose-built platform on the Thames, close to the London Eye.

"The whole interior of this Concorde has been stripped bare metal in stark contrast to its former glorious decor. We can save this Concorde by restoring this iconic aircraft to a new home in central London."

The organisers say the £1m target would cover planning applications needed to create the attraction.

The aircraft at Heathrow is British Airways Concorde G-BOAB, 'Alpha Bravo', which was retired in August 2000, in the aftermath of the Paris crash the previous month.

The idea of moving the aircraft to central London was mooted in 2010 but the proposal has been revived with a Concorde On the Thames web page.

Outlining plans for the attraction, fundraiser organisers write: "On passing through the reception area visitors will be invited to the aircrew presentation area where former aircrew will share their memories of particular flights and interesting passengers. Small groups of visitors will then be invited to join a guided tour of the exterior and interior of Concorde, including the flight deck.

"The rear cabin will retain around 50 seats each fitted with the latest technology for special presentations involving the pilots plus direct links to the flight deck. Visitors will enjoy simulated Concorde flights from airports around the world. These simulations will include snacks with Champagne and chocolates and coffee.

"After the tour of Concorde visitors will be free to return to the lower deck to visit the memorabilia shop with its unique range of Concorde gifts which can be ordered directly or through our extensive website. Alternatively, visitors may decide to visit the Concorde restaurant specialising in full Concorde Transatlantic cuisine, or enjoy Afternoon Tea, or simply a drink in the bar."

A fee will be charged for the tour, but visitors will be able to access the restaurant, bar and shop for free, organisers say.

British Airways has been contacted for comment.