New Thames Crossing Gets Go-Ahead
The UK logistics and freight[1] community has welcomed the news that the Lower Thames Crossing[2] has been granted development consent by the Secretary of State for Transport.
The announcement, made by the Department for Transport, follows a detailed examination process and represents a key milestone for what is set to become a major new route beneath the River Thames, connecting Kent and Essex.
This 14.5-mile project, lead by National Highways, features two tunnels under the River Thames, aiming to alleviate congestion at the Dartford Crossing by rerouting 13 million journeys annually.
The British International Freight Association[3] (BIFA) praised the decision, noting the long-running support from industry stakeholders.
"This is a great result for the campaign, backed by politicians and businesses, as well as BIFA, for a project that was first mooted in 2009 as a means of addressing the problems that congestion at the Dartford Crossing causes," said Steve Parker, BIFA Director.
"Media reports indicate that work will commence in 2026 and could be complete by 2032.
Our members, who manage the transport of a considerable amount of the UK's visible trade, will be delighted.
"Delays in transit pose a risk to their reputations, and have significant financial consequences."
The Dartford Crossing remains one of the UK's busiest road links, and the new tunnel is expected to provide an alternative route to help alleviate traffic pressure.
The decision to grant consent follows a period of extensive consultation and planning, and the project will now move into the next stages of development.
The Labour MP for Dartford, Jim Dickson said "This decision will unlock economic growth across the country and finally deliver a solution to the traffic chaos faced by my constituents on a daily basis."
According to the government, the crossing is a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project and is designed to support long-term growth, enhance road connectivity, and reduce congestion in a key part of the strategic road network. Construction is slated to begin in 2026 or early 2027, with the crossing expected to open by 2032. This development promises to enhance connectivity between the south and the Midlands, linking key ports and stimulating regional economic growth.
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References
- ^ freight (www.logisticsbusiness.com)
- ^ Lower Thames Crossing (nationalhighways.co.uk)
- ^ British International Freight Association (bifa.org)
- ^ Industry Urges Supply Chain Resilience After Heathrow Closure (www.logisticsbusiness.com)