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Lower Thames Crossing: Community drop-ins begin

National Highways Artist's impression of the route on the north side of the ThamesNational Highways
Work on the Lower Thames Crossing is expected to start in 2026

A series of community drop-in events on the latest plans for the Lower Thames Crossing is due to begin.

The crossing would be the longest car tunnel in the UK, stretching 2.6 miles (4.1km) under the Thames.

If approved, the work would start in 2026 and could be open by 2030.

National Highways is offering residents and businesses in north Kent and Essex information on the progress made in 2023 and its plans for 2024.

The road would connect the M2 and A2 in Kent with the M25 in Essex via a new tunnel under the Thames estuary to the east of Tilbury on the north bank and Gravesend on the south.

Plans were accepted by the government in 2022 and are now with planning inspectors.

The series of events at community halls and shopping centres will be held in February and March and will include an update on the planning application.

National Highways Artist impression of how the Lower Thames Crossing could lookNational Highways
National Highways said it would continue to refine its designs

A National Highways spokesperson said the sessions would provide "information about our new partners who will build the crossing if we get the green light" and "their ambitions to recruit local staff and businesses".

A final decision on the project is expected in June, according to National Highways.

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