BCC comments on Lower Thames Crossing announcement

12th April 2017

Commenting on the announcement made today by the Transport Secretary, Chris Grayling, on the Lower Thames Crossing, Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said: -This long-overdue decision is crucial both to local business communities and to national connectivity.

-A new Thames Crossing has long been needed to increase road capacity, ease congestion and shorten travel times, making it easier for businesses to connect with staff, consumers and markets. The project will also create work for the construction sector, and its supply chains. -Business communities will want to see work begin on the new crossing without delay, as it will give a shot in the arm to the construction sector and its supply chains, as well as confidence to business more generally. This should be just one of many major infrastructure projects given the green light over the coming months to boost business confidence and procurement opportunities during a period of uncertainty and change. Leading accredited Chambers of Commerce, representing business communities to be connected by the new Lower Thames Crossing, have also commented: Denise Rossiter, Chief Executive of Essex Chambers of Commerce and Industry, said: "We are pleased the decision has at last been made and urge the Government to proceed with construction as soon as possible. -With international trade growing in importance with Brexit, it is essential that we have first class links between our ports and the rest of the UK. Jo James, Chief Executive of Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, said: -This decision sends the strongest possible message to business that the Government recognises the importance of investing in our strategic infrastructure in order to build a strong national and regional economy. We need to work with government to ensure smooth transition through the planning process. Colin Stanbridge, Chief Executive of London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said: -We welcome the decision to press ahead with a new Lower Thames Crossing and urge that it is built as soon as practical to ease the pressure on, and improve the resilience of, the road network. -We need to ensure that there is continued investment in infrastructure in London and the South-East to maintain the region as an attractive place to work, live and do business.