The London Borough of Bexley has welcomed the Secretary of State’s approval of the Development Consent Order for the Lower Thames Crossing, recognising its potential to unlock economic growth and improve connectivity across the region. As a key part of the Thames Estuary’s growth corridor, Bexley is uniquely placed to help deliver much-needed housing and job opportunities – but this requires further investment in transport infrastructure.

Leader of the Council, Cllr Baroness O’Neill of Bexley OBE, said:

The approval of the Lower Thames Crossing is a positive step forward for much-needed infrastructure improvements. However, we still need clarity on the funding model and assurances that the project will be delivered as planned. It is also crucial to recognise that this is just one part of a much wider investment requirement. To unlock the full potential of the Thames Estuary, we must see continued investment in public transport, including the long-overdue extension of the Elizabeth Line beyond Abbey Wood to Ebbsfleet and the extension of the DLR to Thamesmead and Belvedere. If the government and the Mayor of London are serious about supporting sustainable growth in areas like Bexley, they must commit to the transport infrastructure needed to make it happen. I would welcome the opportunity to meet with the Secretary of State to outline how, with the right investment, Bexley can play a vital role in delivering the homes and jobs the country needs."

The Lower Thames Crossing will provide a new 14-mile road link, including two 2.6-mile tunnels beneath the Thames, connecting Tilbury in Essex with Gravesend in Kent and linking the A2 and M2 with the A13 and M25. While this will ease congestion at the Dartford Crossing, Bexley’s Growth Strategy highlights that further transport improvements are essential to unlocking the borough’s full potential.