The RHA (Road Haulage Association) is deeply disappointed by the Government’s decision to delay the development consent order for the Lower Thames Crossing after ministers announced that a decision won’t be made until at least 23 May 2025.
The RHA has long campaigned for the project to be given the go ahead and says it would spark economic growth by increasing road capacity and reducing congestion in the region.
The proposed tunnel linking Kent and Essex would relieve pressure on the nearby Dartford Crossing which is one of the most congested roads in the country; it costs the economy more than £200m every year in lost productivity and freight delays.
The crossing would almost double capacity across the Thames east of London and would be expected toprovide a boost of up to £40 billion to the UK economy.
Richard Smith, RHA Managing Director, said: “We’re disappointed that the Lower Thames Crossing hasn’t yet been given the green light.
“This is a transformative roads improvement project that could create a more resilient road network and unlock investment opportunities to boost UK business; it would reduce journey times and improve efficiencies for our sectors.
“Delays to this project undermines these goals and perpetuate the challenges faced by operators of lorries, coaches and vans.
“We urge the Government to give consent to this much-needed new route that would create jobs and prosperity and drive economic growth.”
More investment in roads and infrastructure is a key RHA priority with congestion costing the economy £30bn a year. Ahead of the Budget they urge the Chancellor to keep the £8b allocation of Network North road maintenance funding to improve roads.
They are also calling for the forthcoming Road Investment Strategy (RIS3) to feature a fresh pipeline of projects to kickstart a new period of job creation and economic growth.
More on the RHA’s asks ahead of the Budget.
More on the RHA’s vision to support the Government deliver its mission to drive growth: Mission Driven: A Blueprint For Delivery.
