Government chooses two route options for new crossing of Thames in east London

M25

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The government has announced it will enter detailed planning for two possible locations for a new M25 crossing on the lower Thames.

Following a consultation in December last year, the Department for Transport has decided to appraise two options for a new Thames crossing near the current Dartford-Thurrock crossing.

The first option would involve routing a crossing along the same line as the current one, while the second option is further down the river between Medway and Gravesend.

Transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin said the M25鈥檚 Dartford Crossing was 鈥渁 crucial part of the country鈥檚 strategic road network鈥�.

He added: 鈥淲e are committed to a new Lower Thames Crossing, but whichever location is chosen, it will have a big impact on people in the area and we must make the right decision.

鈥淭his work will not delay the delivery of the crossing but allows us to choose the best option for local people and the region鈥檚 economy, so that it helps boost transport links and economic growth.鈥�

The government said the new crossing would support the development of jobs and housing in the area.

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