Lower Thames Crossing Project

We have recently written to the Secretary of State to request that Government gives consent to the Lower Thames Crossing proposals. We believe this is an important project which will unlock significant economic benefits for the region, and improve journey reliability for HGVs, LGVs and Coaches - not just in the area, but across the country. In our letter, we’ve detailed some of the benefits that providing consent to this scheme will bring. 

We represent over 8,500 member companies operating HGVs, LGVs and Coaches - constituting over half of the UK’s heavy commercial fleet. To keep the economy moving and competitive, our members and the industry needs infrastructure which is fit for purpose. We need a strong nationwide network of roads which are safe and reliable with capacity to accommodate future growth in demand. 

It’s estimated that congestion costs the UK economy £30.8 billion a year. In our sector, the cost of an HGV stuck in stationary traffic for an hour is £120, a crippling cost at a time when hauliers are under significant financial pressure.

The Dartford Crossing itself poses significant challenges for free-flowing traffic in the wider South East of England. Even a minor delay or incident can have a serious impact on the wider road network. When the bridge is closed, HGVs are diverted round the whole of the M25, as this is deemed to be the next fastest route. 

In our letter, we've re-stated the importance of the Lower Thames Crossing and made it clear that this project is vital for alleviating congestion in the region, improving journey reliability and unlocking growth.

We will continue to campaign on infrastructure projects such as this.