What’s wrong with the proposals?
🚧 Concerns with the Lower Thames Crossing Proposals
1. Inadequate Solution to Dartford Congestion
-
Limited Impact on Dartford Traffic: The LTC is projected to reduce Dartford Crossing traffic by only 14%, leaving the majority of congestion issues unresolved.
-
Continued Restrictions at Dartford: No plans exist to address the existing safety restrictions at Dartford, such as the escorting of hazardous loads, which continue to cause significant delays.
2. Environmental and Community Impact
-
Destruction of Green Spaces: The proposed route threatens ancient woodlands and farmland, including areas within the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
-
Loss of Wildlife Corridors: The development would sever critical habitats, disrupting local ecosystems and biodiversity.
-
Increased Pollution: The project is expected to elevate air and noise pollution levels in surrounding communities, adversely affecting public health. It will leave Gravesend, Tibury and Thurrock is a “Toxic Triangle” between the M25, the A2 and the LTC.
3. Traffic Redistribution and Local Congestion
-
Diversion of Traffic to Local Roads: When incidents occur at Dartford, traffic is likely to divert to the LTC, overwhelming local roads like the A2, M26, and A227, which are ill-equipped to handle such volumes.
-
Increased Congestion in Nearby Villages: Communities such as Meopham, Wrotham, and Shorne may experience heightened traffic, noise, and pollution levels.
4. Economic Considerations
-
High Cost Relative to Benefits: The estimated £9 billion cost of the LTC raises questions about its value, especially given the modest projected reduction in congestion.
-
Potential for Increased Toll Charges: To finance the project, tolls may rise significantly, potentially tripling current fees, which could burden daily commuters and freight operators.The Sun
5. Planning and Consultation Concerns
-
Limited Public Consultation: The consultation process was criticized for offering limited route options and inadequate engagement with directly affected communities.
-
Pre-Determined Decision-Making: There are concerns that the preferred route was decided upon before the consultation, undermining the legitimacy of public input.
The the Dartford Crossing is severely congested or closed by traffic incidents, drivers will try to find an alternative route.
When the Dartford Crossing is severely congested or closed by traffic incidents, many local roads will become "rat-runs" as driver seek an alternative route.
