Representation by Essex Developers Group (Essex Developers Group)
- Date submitted
- 23 January 2023
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
On behalf of the Essex Developers Group (EDG) we would like to convey our support to the Lower Thames Crossing which would not only relieve pressure on the Dartford Crossing but provide an added boost to job creation and housing in Essex. EDG focuses on helping to improve housing growth across the County, comprising developers, contractors, consultants, local housing companies, housing associations and the public sector. The group aims to eliminate barriers to house building and maximise commercial opportunities by getting the public and private sectors working together in a sustainable way that meets local needs. We believe the Lower Thames Crossing would improve resilience of the network by providing an alternative crossing that would almost double capacity across the Thames East of London. It would offer new, more reliable connections, better journeys, and fewer delays linking up communities between Kent and Essex. This would support economic recovery by boosting local, regional, and national economies, which is especially important right now. LRC will open new markets for local businesses including those in the construction sector, creating a new economy between Kent and Essex. We understand it could support 10,000 jobs in the peak year of construction and 22,000 jobs over the 6-year building phase. There would also be new opportunities for businesses to collaborate, compete and reach new customers and local training opportunities to ensure our communities have the skills we need with the potential to create hundreds of apprenticeships and graduate places. EDG looks forward to continuing to work closely with Lower Thames Crossing Team to maximise the benefits from these opportunities.