The A122 Lower Thames Crossing, led by National Highways, is intended to provide another strategic road crossing east of London and reduce pressure on the Dartford Crossing.

Lower Thames Crossing Project Overview

• Proposal: A new road connection and tunnel crossing of the Thames.
• Area affected: Communities in Kent and Essex, as well as users of the wider road network.
• Promoter’s case: Greater network resilience and relief at Dartford.
• Delivery: A major construction programme with long-term traffic and funding implications.

Project Status & Local Controversy

National Highways reports that consent was granted in March 2025 and work began in early 2026. Its September 2026 update describes lower-emission construction machinery. Campaigners, including the Thames Crossing Action Group in evidence to Parliament, have questioned the scheme’s costs, environmental effects and value as a congestion solution. Lower construction emissions do not by themselves settle questions about traffic after opening.

Discussion point: What measurable improvement should local residents expect, and how would the project respond if congestion simply moves to different junctions?

Infrastructure Capacity & Delivery

• Local junctions: Which routes could attract additional traffic, and when would any necessary improvements be delivered?
• Funding and charges: How will financing and road-user charges affect ordinary commuters and local businesses?

Environmental and Landscape Risks

• Whole-project emissions: Compare construction measures with forecasts for traffic, maintenance and changes in travel demand.
• Land and habitats: Which losses are unavoidable, and how will replacement habitats be assessed over time?

Access and Community Impacts

• Construction: Residents need clear lorry routes, working hours and procedures for resolving dust, noise and access problems.
• Walking and cycling: Will diversions and replacement connections remain convenient for people making short local journeys?

Sources & Further Reading

• National Highways: construction update, September 2026
• Parliament: Thames Crossing Action Group evidence

Research checked on 8 October 2026. The highlighted discussion point is an editorial question, not a quotation from a resident.