Civil engineering contractors have been left disappointed by the Government’s decision to push back the decision on whether to go ahead with the Lower Thames Crossing.
When built, the Lower Thames Crossing will alleviate heavy congestion from the Kent section of the M25, boosting local economic growth and in turn, supporting the development of much needed new homes.
The Government has put off its decision on the scheme’s Development Consent Order to allow more time for the application to be considered, including any decisions made as part of the spending review.
Commenting, CECA Director of Operations Marie-Claude Hemming said: “This is disappointing news for our industry, which has been primed to support the Government in delivering its five growth missions.
“While we understand the importance of ensuring the right decision is made, this last-minute delay will heavily impact upon the confidence and strength of the supply chain, which has primed itself for delivery.
“CECA and the wider industry will continue to make the case for a sensible discussion to be had about how to better unlock infrastructure investment where doing so makes significant housing development more viable.
“We would like to work with Government and others to better capture the value uplift associated, helping to deliver ambitions targets on new home construction, through projects such as the Lower Thames Crossing.”
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