By rosebell
In 27 November’s Budget,the UK government put its financial support behind two major tunnel projects.
While confirming the final part of public funding for the Lower Thames Crossing and giving the green light to private investment and work starting next year, Chancellor Rachel Reeves presented government backing for the extension of the Docklands Light Railway to Thamesmead.
As pledged an extra £891m in funding for the £9bn project, she said: “As we allocate investment for the infrastructure that is the backbone of economic growth across our country, today I will commit investment for the Lower Thames Crossing.”
According to Lower Thames Crossing executive director Matt Palmer: “The funding “gives us the green light to start building the Lower Thames Crossing next year and puts it on track to open in the early 2030s. The project will be built by local people and businesses and leave a legacy of jobs and skills across the region. It’s the first of a new generation of projects that will tackle congestion and drive economic growth, whilst redrawing the blueprint for low-carbon construction.”
As a 23km road project east of London and involving two 4.1km-long tunnels (one northbound and one southbound) beneath the River Thames, the Lower Thames Crossing received planning permission in March this year and the tunnels are due to connect the A2 in Kent with the A13 and M25 motorway in Essex.
The proposed DLR project comprises a 3km extension from Gallions Reach to Thamesmead via Beckton Riverside, including a twin-bore 1.5km tunnel under the River Thames.
