Government Decision Looms on £9 Billion Lower Thames Crossing Project Impacting Kent and Sussex Motorists

Exciting News for Motorists: What’s Happening in Kent and Sussex

This Friday is shaping up to be a big day for folks in Kent and Sussex. The government is set to announce a decision on whether to go ahead with a massive new road project known as the Lower Thames Crossing. This proposed crossing is expected to be a game changer for motorists, costing a whopping £9 billion and stretching about 14.3 miles in total.

What’s the Buzz About the Lower Thames Crossing?

The whole idea behind this mega road is to ease the serious traffic jams that many drivers experience on the current Dartford Crossing. So, what’s the plan? The Lower Thames Crossing aims to create a shiny new motorway-style road. It’s set to connect the A2 and M2 in Kent to the A13 and M25 in Essex via a 2.6-mile-long tunnel underneath the Thames, which would make it the longest road tunnel in the UK.

The folks over at National Highways are excited, claiming that this project will nearly double the road capacity across the Thames just east of London. They’ve referred to the scheme as “our most ambitious scheme in 35 years”. Construction is projected to kick off in 2026, with the shiny new road expected to be open for business by 2032.

Where Do the Locals Stand?

Thurrock Council in Essex has been a consistent voice against the project. They express concerns about the possible negative impacts the crossing could have on the local economy, society, and the environment. On the flip side, the leader of Kent’s Dartford Borough Council is all for it, seeing the potential benefits for their community.

Meanwhile, local campaigners, specifically the Thames Crossing Action Group, argue passionately against the crossing. They’ve labeled it as “hugely destructive and harmful,” and quite frankly, a “waste of money.” Given that more than £800 million of taxpayers’ money has already been shelled out on the planning stages since 2009, they have a point to discuss.

A Delay in Decision-Making

Now, you might be wondering why we’re all holding our breath for this decision on Friday. Initially, the deadline for a decision on whether to grant a development consent order allowing National Highways to build the road was due on June 20, but it was delayed because of the general election. It’s been a long wait!

Interestingly, back in July, Chancellor Rachel Reeves scrapped other big projects like the £1.7 billion Stonehenge tunnel scheme and the A27 Arundel bypass in West Sussex, but she didn’t mention the Lower Thames Crossing. So, there’s a bit of a mystery lingering around it, especially considering the scale and cost of this new road.

Final Thoughts

Whether this crossing becomes a reality or not is anyone’s guess for now. As we approach the big reveal on Friday, many locals, whether firm supporters or voiced opponents, are anxious to see how this will pan out. One thing is for sure – the road ahead won’t be smooth for everyone. So, let’s keep our ears to the ground and fingers crossed for the best outcome.