Specialist CPO solicitor, Melanie Francis, takes a look at the recent announcement on the future of the Lower Thames Crossing proposal.
On the 25th March 2025 the government granted development consent for the Lower Thames Crossing project. The aim of the project is to drive growth, the main priority of the government Plan for Change and to improve congestion and the connection between the South East, the Midlands and the North.
Development Consent Orders were introduced by the Planning Act 2008 as a means of streamlining decision-making processes for major infrastructure projects, with the stated aim of making the procedures fairer and faster for communities and applicants alike.
Development Consent Orders authorise the development and use of Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs); these are major proposals in excess of a prescribed size relating to energy, transport, water, waste and waste-water which are considered by the Government to be of such importance that permission to build and operate them needs to be confirmed at national level by the relevant Secretary of State. A single duly authorised Development Consent Order will confer all the necessary consents/powers to enable the scheme to proceed, including planning permission, compulsory purchase powers, authority for highway and street works, listed building consents etc. It is no longer necessary to secure a raft of different consents from different bodies to enable an NSIP scheme to proceed – a single Development Consent Order does it all.
The three main delivery partners are currently working to refine aspects of the of the design to reduce the impact on the local community and environment. Over the coming months they will be carrying out archaeological, ecological and topographical surveys as well as ground investigations to prepare the detailed design and construction plans.
The government is currently exploring private finance options for the project with the aim to start construction as early as 2026. The new road is expected to open in the early 2030s.
Holmes and Hills currently advises and represents a number of individuals affected by the proposed Lower Thames Crossing Development Consent Order. We have a wealth of experience preparing cases for and representing clients from the outset. We aim to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients, with upmost considerations to the client’s objectives.
Call us on 01206 593933 today to speak with one of our specialist Compulsory Purchase Order solicitors. Or complete the form below.
Disclaimer
The content of this article is provided for general information only. It does not constitute legal or other professional advice. The information given in this article is correct at the date of publication.
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