Michael has called on the Government to announce its decision on a new Lower Thames Crossing.
In a letter to the Transport Secretary, Chris Grayling MP, Michael has pressed for urgent progress following the consultation conducted by Highways England earlier this year. With no announcement on the proposal in last week’s Autumn Statement and increasing pressure on the Dartford Crossing, Michael believes a decision is urgently required so that building can commence on the project as soon as possible.
Michael supports the easternmost route, option C, which was recommended by Highways England in its consultation. This route would be the best option for his constituents, relieving congestion in the Dartford area and providing economic benefits across the region. In his letter, Michael also emphasised the importance of properly connecting any new crossing into the wider road network.
Michael said: “The ongoing problems at Dartford are affecting the daily lives of my constituents so a new crossing is urgently needed. I am calling on the Government to turn its welcome support for the principle of a new crossing into concrete, comprehensive action so that we can resolve this issue as soon as possible.”