The Thames Estuary Growth Board has welcomed the Government’s decision to approve the Development Consent Order application for the Lower Thames Crossing.
The new road crossing will connect Kent, Thurrock and Essex. Approximately 14.5 miles (23km) in length, it will connect to the existing road network from the A2/M2 to the M25 with two tunnels (one southbound and one northbound) running beneath the River Thames.
It is expected to add billions of pounds to the UK economy, create thousands of skilled jobs, and open up vital new routes for trade and transport, connecting exporters in the Midlands and North to channel ports and international markets. It also promises to tackle the daily congestion and disruption at Dartford, which costs the UK economy an estimated £200 million a year. Plans for the crossing also include a clear commitment to sustainability, such as a target to reduce construction carbon by 70% and utilising low-carbon hydrogen power for plant and equipment.
The Thames Estuary Growth Board said the approval of the crossing was “a pivotal moment for the Thames Estuary and a much-needed investment in the infrastructure that underpins fair economic growth,” and that it looked forward to continuing its work “with the Lower Thames Crossing to ensure this project is delivered quickly with the best possible benefit for the UK.”
Kate Willard OBE, Chair of the Thames Estuary Growth Board, added: “We are delighted with today’s decision, which marks the beginning of a hugely exciting chapter. The Lower Thames Crossing is a bold and forward-looking investment that opens up new opportunities well beyond the Thames Estuary. By opening up vital new routes for trade, travel, and transport, LTC will create jobs, support businesses, and strengthen national connectivity, helping to deliver the fair economic growth the UK needs and make a real difference to people’s lives.”