The largest road tunnel in the United Kingdom will be built after the government of a plan of 8.3 billion pounds sterling was approved by the government.
The lower crossing of the Thames would connect Tilbury, Essex and Gravesend in Kent by two tunnels flowing under the Thames.
National highways hoped that the road would reduce traffic to Dartford by 20% and open by 2032.
Jim Dickson, Dartford’s Labor MP, said that the decision “would finally provide a solution to traffic chaos” confronted by motorists.
The 14.5 mile (23 km) road would connect the A2 and M2 in Kent with the A13 and M25 in Thurrock.
About 2.6 miles (4.2 km) from the route would be underground, with a tunnel north and southern southern direction from each other under the Thames.
Tuesday’s announcement was 16 years in progress, the project made its lead in 2009 and more than 800 million pounds in money in taxpayers spent for planning since.
The request was submitted to the planning inspection for examination by national motorways on October 31, 2022.
It was approved by the Secretary of State for Transport Heidi Alexander on March 20.
National Highways planned to start construction in 2026.
Dickson said: “For too long, governments have died of a decision on crossing the lower Thames, leaving Dartford residents to endure endless blockage.
“Now, under this Labor government, the new level crossing has finally received the green light and will be built.
“This decision will unlock economic growth across the country and will finally provide a solution to traffic chaos confronted by my daily voters.”
