The UK government has given the green light for the £10bn Lower Thames Crossing tunnel, a long-awaited infrastructure project that will create a new road and tunnel linking Kent and Essex. This 14-mile crossing is set to be the first new Thames river crossing east of London in 60 years. The development consent order was granted after years of planning, and construction is expected to begin in 2026 or early 2027, with an opening projected by 2032.
The Lower Thames Crossing aims to improve connectivity between southern England and the Midlands, providing a crucial route for drivers, freight, and logistics. This project is seen as a key part of the UK government's infrastructure plans, promoting economic growth and easing traffic congestion in the region. The approval follows significant planning and cost assessments, with some £1.2bn already spent on consultations and legal fees, pushing the cost from £6.8bn to the current £10bn forecast.
The government is considering a private financing model for the project, with discussions on the use of a regulated asset base (RAB) structure, which would attract private investment while also incurring additional taxpayer costs. Despite skepticism over the financial burden, the government remains confident that the Lower Thames Crossing will become an essential piece of the UK's transport infrastructure, providing long-term benefits to the economy and the region.
