Today, Parliament held a Westminster Hall debate on the Lower Thames Crossing. Sadly, I was not allowed to participate in the debate due to my Shadow Cabinet role, however I want to take this opportunity to reiterate my strong support for this vital project and set out what I would have argued, had I been allowed to contribute.
Last week's traffic disruptions, in Wilmington, Hawley and Sutton-at-Hone, which saw knock on effects to Swanley, Crockenhill, South Darenth and Farningham, was a stark reminder of how urgently we need the Lower Thames Crossing. The tunnel closure at the Dartford Crossing, while necessary, left many residents stuck in hours-long gridlock. It meant delayed journeys to and from work and school, missed GP and hospital appointments, and left ambulances and other emergency response vehicles struggling to navigate the congestion.
We need – and deserve - a long-term solution to keep our roads moving and to support both our local residents and businesses. Building the Lower Thames Crossing is that solution.
The Labour Government's recent decision to delay this project will only increase the strain on our infrastructure and prolong the traffic misery for our community.
I will continue to do everything I can to ensure a final decision is taken in May (if not before), allowing the Lower Thames Crossing to proceed without further delay.
