The transport secretary has officially approved the £9bn Lower Thames Crossing project, a road tunnel connecting Essex and Kent. This development consent order was granted by Heidi Alexander on Tuesday, following a recent delay by the new government. The Lower Thames Crossing has been the subject of controversy for years, with delays, consultations, and redesigns already costing around £1bn. The project includes more than 14 miles of roads, including two 2.6-mile tunnels under the Thames, near Thurrock. These motorway-sized tunnels will feature a 70mph speed limit and three lanes in both directions, connecting the M25 to Channel port traffic. The government plans to involve private finance in the construction, with tolls expected to cover some of the estimated £8.95bn “baseline cost” at 2023 prices. A government source stated that the Lower Thames Crossing will be a crucial route for drivers, freight, and logistics, enhancing connectivity between the south and the Midlands, linking up ports, and facilitating regional economic growth. The government views this as a commitment to delivering vital infrastructure and supporting the nation’s success. More details will be provided soon.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/mar/25/lower-thames-crossing-plan-essex-kent-approved-tunnel