BBC Radio Kent debate on new Thames river crossing

Dartford Crossing

Do you think a new crossing should be built between Kent and Essex?

BBC Radio Kent has hosted a debate on plans for a new Thames river crossing between Kent and Essex.

The government has said a new Lower Thames road crossing, costing up to £5bn, is necessary to tackle congestion.

Three locations have been put forward as possible sites:

  • The site of the existing A282 Dartford to Thurrock crossing

  • Connecting the A2 at Swanscombe in Kent with the A1089 in Essex

  • Connecting the M2 in Kent with the A13 and the M25 in Essex between junctions 29 and 30

  • Variant to option three would also widen the A229 in Kent between the M2 and M20

A panel of guests debated and took questions from listeners at the Hilton Dartford Bridge Hotel at 18.00 BST on 8 July.

BBC Radio Kent also wants to know what you think about the plans for the crossing. Is it needed and if so where should it go?

Panellists

  • David Burch, Essex Chambers of Commerce

  • Paul Carter, Conservative Leader of Kent County Council

  • Natalie Chapman, the Freight Transport Association

  • John Kent, Labour Leader of Thurrock Borough Council

  • Richard Knox-Johnston, CPRE Protect Kent

  • Mike Stephens, Institution of Civil Engineers

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