MPs warn Lower Thames Crossing lacks service station for lorries

Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 15 Oct, 20:58 · Archive

MPs say the planned 14-mile Lower Thames Crossing will have no service station, forcing tired lorry drivers onto residential streets.

The proposed 14-mile A-road between Kent and Essex, which will connect the A2 near Gravesend, the A13 in Thurrock and the M25 near Upminster via a tunnel beneath the River Thames, currently has no rest area in its plans.

Ruth Cadbury, Labour MP for Brentford and Isleworth and chair of the Commons Transport Committee, raised concerns about the omission on Thursday. She warned the lack of a service station highlighted a 'national policy gap' which could force lorry drivers off newly built dual carriageways and onto residential streets when they need to take a rest break.

Cadbury told the Commons that hauliers 'need somewhere to stop and sleep in a place where they and their load are safe' whilst working. Under the current plans, she said, drivers requiring rest would 'have to go and find an A-road layby — no toilets, no food, no safety'.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander wrote to Cadbury earlier this year stating that 'there is no requirement to include a rest and service area as part of the Lower Thames Crossing scheme'. She acknowledged that 'early proposals for the Lower Thames Crossing included a rest and service area', but explained that this plan was 'removed' following reassessment.

The warning reflects broader concerns about how the infrastructure change could affect neighbouring residential areas if weary drivers are forced to seek alternative rest locations outside designated facilities.

MPs warn Lower Thames Crossing lacks service station for lorries — Image: Brentwood Guardian

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How it is being reported

Fears Lower Thames Crossing could send lorries spilling onto Essex streetsMPs warn lorries could spill into residential streets near the Lower Thames Crossing if plans omit a service station for drivers needing safe rest stops.Brentwood Guardian · 15 Oct, 20:33
Fears Lower Thames Crossing could send lorries spilling onto Essex streetsMPs warn lorries could spill into residential streets near the Lower Thames Crossing if plans omit a service station for drivers needing safe rest stops.Echo (Basildon) · 15 Oct, 20:33
Fears Lower Thames Crossing could send lorries spilling onto Essex streetsMPs warn lorries could spill into residential streets near the Lower Thames Crossing if plans omit a service station for drivers needing safe rest stops.Colchester Gazette · 15 Oct, 20:33

In this story: Lower Thames Crossing · Ruth Cadbury · Heidi Alexander · Essex · Kent · Commons Transport Committee

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