The Government is supporting the Lower Thames Crossing project through private funding, aiming to ease congestion and improve connectivity.
Essex: The Government is backing the Lower Thames Crossing project. This support comes through private investment, as reported by the Local Democracy Reporter.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves made this announcement just three months after a delay. The Government postponed the decision on the £9 billion project until May 2025.
In October, then-transport secretary Louise Haigh said they needed more time. The deadline for a decision on the project was pushed to May 23.
Despite the delay, the Chancellor expressed strong support for the crossing. She mentioned it during a speech focused on boosting the economy.
On January 29, she stated they would collaborate with the private sector. This partnership aims to deliver essential infrastructure for the country.
The Lower Thames Crossing will enhance connectivity at key ports like Dover and Felixstowe. It will help reduce congestion for goods traveling to international markets.
To ensure value for taxpayers, the Government is exploring private financing options. They are also changing how they evaluate public investments.
The original deadline for a decision was June 20, but it was delayed to October 4 due to the general election.
Planning for this project has been ongoing since 2009, costing taxpayers over £800 million. The crossing will feature a new motorway-style road to ease traffic at the Dartford Crossing.
This road will connect major routes in Kent and Essex through a 2.6-mile tunnel under the Thames, the longest road tunnel in the UK.
National Highways plans to start construction in 2026, with the road expected to open in 2032.
Thurrock Council opposes the project, citing potential negative impacts. However, Kent’s Dartford Borough Council supports it. Local campaigners argue the crossing could be harmful and a waste of resources.
