Concern surrounds continuing climbing costs for the contract to construct the controversial new crossing under the Thames in the UK.
Detractors of the project claim that the new tunnel is not needed and that it will cause environmental damage. However, with traffic volumes far exceeding capacity and delays, long tailbacks and jams a frequent problem at the existing Dartford Crossing, the need for the link is obvious. The project is also being carried out with a focus on environmental protection, with only electric or hydrogen-fuelled machines being used for its construction as well as a planned programme of bio-remediation.
The one criticism of the project that does stand however is its cost. Building the Lower Thames Crossing is expected to cost in excess of £11 billion, around £478,261/m for the new 23km link. The UK’s Department for Transport (DfT) is now finding further funding for the project, which is not due for completion until 2034. The DfT took over direct responsibility for the project from National Highways in late 2025 due to concerns over the substantial cost increases.
When complete, the link will feature twin tunnel bores and will be the longest road tunnel in the UK. The crossing will be managed under a concession.
