This is a plain-English, referenced review of the Lower Thames Crossing that separates fact from spin. We compare the chosen Option C with an alternative long tunnel at Dartford (A14) using scheme-only measures: congestion, operational risk, costs/BCR and environmental footprint. The numbers show both options score poorly on value for money, while A14 would likely have a smaller surface impact and lower ‘should-cost’ for the tunnelled section. Our conclusion: pause the project, publish the missing data, and run a short merits-only options refresh.
The Lower Thames Crossing Association
Established in 2016, the Lower Thames Crossing Association (LTCA) is a grassroots, community-driven organization focused on advocating for the well-being of the people and environment of north Kent. Its mission is to critically examine and challenge the proposed Lower Thames Crossing (LTC) project, particularly addressing the potential environmental damage, disruption to local communities, and long-term sustainability concerns.
LTCA aims to ensure that any infrastructure solutions provide meaningful relief from traffic congestion and pollution, without sacrificing environmental integrity. We actively promote alternatives that balance transport needs with ecological preservation and community protection. Additionally, LTCA works to mitigate the negative impacts of any chosen crossing option by influencing planning decisions and engaging with local residents, encouraging their participation in consultations and debates about the project.
The organization positions itself as a watchdog for both local and broader public interests, striving to hold authorities accountable for the project’s financial and environmental risks. Through ongoing campaigns, LTCA fosters community involvement and raises awareness of the critical issues tied to the LTC project.
The Kent-based LTCA works in close collaboration with our colleagues at the Thames Crossing Action Group based in Thurrock.
Latest Analysis
Five months after consent, this report rechecks the evidence on a merits-only basis. We compare the chosen Option C with a long Dartford tunnel (A14), look at congestion, costs and land-take, and set out why Government should pause and re-test before committing £9–10bn.
About the Lower Thames Crossing
The Lower Thames Crossing is a major project proposed by National Highways aimed at creating a new road tunnel beneath the River Thames, and new roads connecting the A2 at Gravesend in Kent with the M25 near Upminster in Essex, intended to ease congestion at the existing Dartford Crossing. Estimated to cost over £9 billion, it is projected to reduce traffic at Dartford by 14%.
Advocates suggest it will provide a long-term solution to traffic issues in the region, but many, including the LTCA, believe that the current plans are not fit for purpose and that alternative solutions should be explored.
Critics argue that the project has a low cost-benefit ratio and poses significant environmental concerns, particularly in relation to the destruction of local habitats and the potential misallocation of taxpayer funds.
Lower Thames Crossing Route C3 (c) National Highways
LTCA’s Views in a Nutshell:-
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We agree that improving cross-Thames connectivity is essential.
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However, we believe the current plans are deeply flawed, with unrealistic traffic assumptions, significant environmental concerns, and a failure to offer sufficient benefits for the cost involved.
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We are confident that more effective and cost-efficient alternatives exist.
Why Another Crossing?
According to National Highways, congestion at the Dartford Crossing causes delays, increases pollution, restricts economic growth, and limits emergency response times, requiring urgent attention.
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The Highways England Proposals
The Lower Thames Crossing (LTC) is a proposed new road linking Kent and Essex via a tunnel under the Thames. Intended to alleviate congestion at the Dartford Crossing, the project includes a 1.8-mile twin-bore tunnel and significant infrastructure changes in Kent.
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What’s wrong with the proposals?
The Lower Thames Crossing (LTC) proposal has raised significant concerns, including limited impact on Dartford congestion, environmental degradation, traffic redistribution leading to local congestion, high costs relative to benefits, and issues with public consultation processes. These concerns highlight the need for a more effective and sustainable solution.
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A Better Solution: Option A14
The LTCA proposes the Dartford Expressway, based on Highways England’s Option A14, to alleviate congestion and pollution at the Dartford Crossing. This long-term solution involves a dual three-lane tunnel, bypassing Dartford and providing a more efficient, environmentally friendly alternative to the current Lower Thames Crossing plans.
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