On the 14th July, Highways England launched its design refinement consultation for the Lower Thames Crossing, a proposed new road connecting Kent, Thurrock and Essex through a tunnel beneath the River Thames.
Copper has been providing consultation and engagement support for the project, which is part of the biggest investment in the country’s road network for a generation and an essential component in the UK’s future transport infrastructure.
This design refinement consultation is the latest phase of an extensive consultation process undertaken by Highways England to develop their proposals.
Copper supported the preparation and delivery of the project’s supplementary consultation, which was launched earlier this year. Since then a number of refinements have been made to the design of the project, which are made available to the public for comment in this subsequent consultation.
In recent months the UK has faced immense challenges due to the Covid-19 pandemic. In line with the Covid-19 guidelines and restrictions, there has been an increased focus on a ‘digital first’ approach to this consultation, with new additional and innovative measures put in place to ensure everyone can access, understand and comment on the proposed refinements.
In the wake of a potential national recession, nationally significant infrastructure projects, such as the Lower Thames Crossing, have an important role to play in supporting the UK’s recovery and future economic growth.
Copper will continue to support the Lower Thames Crossing in producing the Consultation Report before the Development Consent Order application is submitted later this year.
To find out more about the Lower Thames Crossing and the design refinement consultation, please visit: highwaysengland.co.uk/design-refinement-consultation-launch/
