Getting investment in our local road network is one of my top priorities.
Better roads not only cut journey times but can also help to reduce noise and air pollution with fewer traffic jams and congestion.
The Lower Thames Crossing could bring huge benefits to people in Faversham and Mid Kent, but only if investment in the project is combined with investment across the road network in Kent.
In response to the latest consultation on the project, I’ve called for other roads and junctions along the Channel corridor to be improved – including M2/J7 at Brenley Corner, and the A249 and the A229.
I’ve stressed that impact assessments for the project need to be much wider than just the areas around Gravesend where the Lower Thames Crossing will be constructed. The project will likely have an impact across the road network in Kent, which is why investment in other roads is also badly needed.
Improving one section of the road network is of little use if it simply shifts traffic problems to other parts of the network. The Lower Thames Crossing needs to make life better for motorists across Kent, not just fix traffic and capacity problems at the Dartford Crossing.
