New images showing plans for Britain’s longest road tunnel connecting Kent, Essex and Thurrock have been released as the project begins its next phase of public consultation.

This further consultation into Highways England’s proposed Lower Thames Crossing will give

people the chance to have their say on the latest changes to the multi-billion-pound project.

The changes have been made after detailed analysis of the 29,000 responses received during the last consultation held in 2018, and new technical information following surveys and ground investigations.

A viaduct will carry the new Lower Thames Crossing route over the Mardyke valley. The Crossing will provide a new 14.3-mile 70mph road connecting Kent, Thurrock and Essex, with the world’s third-widest bored tunnel. It will almost double road capacity across the River Thames east of London, connecting communities, reducing delays and providing more reliable journeys.

The eight-week consultation began on 29 January and will end at 23:59 on 25 March.

Chris Taylor, Director of Highways England’s Complex Infrastructure Programme said, “The Lower Thames Crossing is Highways England’s most ambitious project in 30 years, designed to improve journeys across the south-east and open up new connections and opportunities for people and businesses.”

“This consultation is a chance for people to review and comment on a number of changes made since our last consultation in 2018, and to help shape this once-in-a-generation project.”

Photo: The north entrance to the Lower Thames Crossing in Thurrock.