A Better Solution: Option A14
Last Updated: August 9, 2025
Introducing: The Dartford Expressway
The Lower Thames Crossing Association (LTCA) has long advocated for a solution that effectively addresses the traffic congestion and pollution issues at the Dartford Crossing. We believe that the Dartford Expressway, based on Highways England’s Option A14, offers a more viable and sustainable alternative to the current proposals.
Background
The existing Dartford Crossing comprises the A282 tunnels and the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge, which together form the M25 orbital route. However, this crossing is operating well beyond its designed capacity, leading to significant congestion and environmental concerns. Highways England’s Option A14 proposed a dual three-lane bored tunnel running from south of M25 Junction 2 to north of Junction 30, bypassing the existing crossing entirely. Wikipedia, Data Parliament
The Dartford Expressway Proposal
The LTCA’s Dartford Expressway proposal builds upon Option A14, suggesting the construction of a 7.4 km long dual three-lane bored tunnel with merge and diverge directly connecting to the mainline M25 south of Junction 2 and north of Junction 30. This tunnel would carry all regional and national traffic, including that from the Channel ports, below ground, away from populated areas in Dartford. By bypassing the hot spots of congestion around the existing Dartford-Thurrock Crossing, this solution could reduce traffic at the existing crossing by 40% or more, effectively alleviating the daily tailbacks suffered by motorists. Data Parliament
Rationale for the Proposal
The LTCA believes that completing the M25 to full motorway standard throughout, separating national and regional traffic from local traffic, and addressing the pollutants arising from exhaust fumes are essential steps in solving the congestion and pollution problems at Dartford. The Dartford Expressway offers a solution that meets these objectives without imposing additional traffic upon local roads like the A2 and A13.
Conclusion
The LTCA continues to advocate for the Dartford Expressway as a more effective and sustainable solution to the traffic and pollution problems at Dartford. We believe that this proposal offers a long-term, environmentally friendly alternative to the current Lower Thames Crossing plans, and we urge stakeholders to reconsider Option A14 as a viable route.
