UK Government Approves £9-10 Billion Lower Thames Crossing Project

The 14-mile road and tunnel project, designed to alleviate Dartford Crossing congestion, is set to begin construction in 2026 after years of delays.

The Lower Thames Crossing, featuring a 2.6-mile twin tunnel under the River Thames, received formal approval from Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander on March 25, 2025.
The project aims to nearly double road capacity east of London, diverting 13 million vehicles annually from the heavily congested Dartford Crossing.
Construction is expected to start in 2026, with the road projected to open in the early 2030s, marking the UK’s largest road infrastructure project in decades.
Over £1 billion has already been spent on planning and consultations, with private financing and tolls being explored to manage the £9-10 billion budget.
While the government emphasizes economic growth and low-carbon construction, the project faces criticism from environmental groups and local councils citing potential social and environmental impacts.