A coalition of 80 businesses is urging the government to greenlight the Lower Thames Crossing project, citing the severe congestion at the Dartford Crossing as a growing threat to the local economy. The proposed infrastructure project aims to link Gravesend in Kent and Tilbury in Essex via a tunnel under the River Thames.
Traffic congestion in the area has reached critical levels, disrupting deliveries, delaying commutes, and even preventing residents from accessing vital services, according to Jim Dickson, MP for the town and a strong advocate for the project. “The Dartford Crossing is over capacity. Businesses can’t make deliveries, residents can’t get to hospitals on time, and people are late for work,” Dickson said.
Paul Gallagher, a former freight driver with over 40 years of experience at the Dartford Crossing, is among those championing the new road. Having switched careers to become a lorry driving instructor due to the stress caused by worsening traffic, Gallagher said, “We must have thousands more cars on the road than we did even ten years ago, and unfortunately, the infrastructure hasn’t kept up with the volume of traffic.”
The proposal, however, faces strong opposition from environmental groups. The Kent Wildlife Trust has raised concerns over the destruction of ancient woodlands and irreplaceable habitats. “These habitats take hundreds of years to establish, which means they can’t be mitigated within our lifetimes,” a spokesperson said. Campaigners also warn of the potential for increased pollution in the region.
The government’s decision on whether to proceed with the project is expected by 23 May, following two prior delays. Proponents argue that the Lower Thames Crossing is critical to easing congestion and boosting economic productivity, while opponents remain steadfast in their fight to preserve the environment.
As the debate continues, the outcome of this contentious project will have far-reaching implications for both the region’s infrastructure and its environmental landscape.
