The proposals, linking Kent and Essex, would see a three-lane dual carriageway across the route and a new design for the Tilbury junction.
A public consultation lasting 10 weeks begins today.
Project Director Tim Jones has called the crossing ‘the biggest single road upgrade since the M25 was completed.’
He said: “For too long the Dartford Crossing has been the only way to get across the Thames east of London. It is a vital gateway, but carries more traffic than it was ever designed for and drivers there suffer from regular delays, severing communities and holding back economic growth.
“The Lower Thames Crossing is the most ambitious project of its kind ever in the UK and the biggest single road upgrade since the M25 was completed more than 30 years ago.
“It would almost double road capacity across the Thames cutting congestion, significantly easing pressure at the Dartford Crossing and boosting the resilience of the whole road network. This consultation is an important opportunity for people to share their views on our proposals and I urge anyone who has an interest to have their say.”
Thurrock Council has previously criticised Highways England for their lack of communication regarding the crossing.
Leader Rob Gledhill said earlier this week: “I’m disgusted but unsurprised at the unacceptable lack of engagement and information from Highways England ahead of time for the council to properly prepare information and advice for residents
“The council remains unanimously opposed to the Lower Thames Crossing and this position has not changed.
“If the scheme goes ahead, we need to ensure that everything possible is done by Highways England to minimise the impact on the environment and ensure the health of our residents is not harmed. Measures must be put in place that deliver against Thurrock’s priorities and not those of Highways England.”
Tags: Grays, Thurrock, Tilbury, Lower Thames Crossing
