UK Approves £8.95 Billion Lower Thames Crossing

The UK government has approved the construction of the Lower Thames Crossing, a major infrastructure project designed to ease congestion on the Dartford Crossing by connecting Kent and Essex with a new 14.5-mile road and tunnel system under the River Thames. Expected to cost £8.95 billion, the project includes two 2.6-mile tunnels and will accommodate 70mph traffic on three lanes each way, significantly improving traffic flow. National Highways anticipates the new crossing will divert about 13 million vehicles annually from the overstressed Dartford Crossing. The development has been in planning since 2009 and received final development consent after a comprehensive public and statutory examination process. The project is projected to be completed by 2032, promising to enhance connectivity and economic growth in the region. Local MPs and officials have expressed optimism that the new crossing will alleviate longstanding traffic issues.