The UK's public spending watchdog has announced plans to investigate the Lower Thames Crossing, a major infrastructure project linking Essex and Kent, as campaigners raise alarms over its escalating costs. The National Audit Office (NAO) confirmed it will monitor and potentially audit the £11bn road tunnel, which has already consumed over £1bn before construction begins.
NAO Confirms Investigation Plans
In a letter to campaign group Transport Action Network (TAN), NAO head Gareth Davies stated: "I anticipate that I will examine and report on the Lower Thames Crossing. My teams are tracking activity on the programme. This will inform my decision on the right timing for audit work." This follows a previous letter in April where Davies said no work was under way but he would keep the topic in mind. The latest letter, dated 6 July, signals the watchdog is moving closer to formal action.
An NAO spokesperson added: "The Lower Thames Crossing is a significant programme and is of high parliamentary and public interest. The NAO is tracking activity on the programme, which will inform its decision on the right timing for audit work."
Project Costs and Controversy
Ministers committed this month to proceed with the long-delayed project after it was spared from billions of pounds in infrastructure cuts, which were intended to free up £15bn for increased defence spending. The scheme is estimated to cost more per mile than the HS2 high-speed rail link from London to Birmingham. Last month, an additional £174m of public money was allocated to the project.
The government has pledged £3.1bn for the construction of the twin 2.6-mile tunnel, designed to ease congestion on the Dartford Crossing. The remainder is expected to be financed by the private sector. A licence to operate the new tunnel and the existing Dartford tunnel will be handed to a private consortium in 2029, offered in perpetuity and overseen by a regulator. Completion is now scheduled for 2034.
Campaigner Concerns
Campaigners at TAN have voiced strong opposition, arguing that public funds are being wasted. Abby Coften, TAN chief executive, said: "We're pleased the NAO agrees with us that the privatised Lower Thames Crossing needs investigating. However, this must be fast-tracked before more public funds are wasted. The same mistakes are being made as on HS2, but worse as LTC costs more per mile and has no completed business case."
Coften added: "Billions of pounds of taxpayers' money are being spent for just five years' relief at Dartford. Meanwhile the toll revenues at LTC and Dartford will be gifted to private investors, and lost to the exchequer. It's time to give the LTC the red card."
Government Response
A Department for Transport spokesperson defended the project, stating: "The NAO routinely reports on major government investments, and we would expect the same to apply to the Lower Thames Crossing. The cost-per-mile comparison to HS2 is misleading - these are entirely different projects with different objectives. Doing nothing at Dartford is simply not an option. Creating a new connection will reduce congestion, boost economic growth and establish a new strategic trade route between the ports of the South East, the Midlands and the North."
The Guardian previously revealed that the Department for Transport had taken direct control of the project, forcing National Highways to step back from its planning and oversight role.
