Representation by Essex Chambers of Commerce & Industry Ltd (Essex Chambers of Commerce & Industry Ltd)
- Date submitted
- 14 February 2023
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
Proposed Third Lower Thames Crossing I am writing as Chief Executive of Essex Chambers of Commerce, the county’s leading business organisation. Our membership ranges from sole traders and SME’s through to national and international companies covering all spectrums of business activity. Much of our member’s work will involve day to day travel whether they are a manufacturer delivering finished goods, a supplier to other businesses or an accountant visiting clients. Much of this travel will be on the county’s roads and they all give us one consistent message which has been the same for the past ten years or more, that is the congestion on our roads causes unnecessary delays which cost both time and money. One of the worst affected areas is south Essex especially around the M25, A13 and A130. This is a fast- growing area with plans to grow even further in the future with the creation of the Thames Freeport containing two of the UK’s most import ports, London Gateway and Tilbury. Adjoining them is Basildon, which is also expanding rapidly and further along the Thames Estuary Southend on Sea which is now celebrating its’ city status with its own plans for growth. The existing Lower Thames Crossings are already congested and it is vital that the proposed Third Crossing goes ahead as planned. Not only does this congestion affect the local and wider Essex economy but also that of the East of England and the UK itself. At a time when we are encouraging businesses to invest, to grow and to export we cannot sit back and let this situation continue. It is essential that this project proceeds as planned for the future of our businesses and residents of Essex. We urge Government to confirm that the planning and construction processes are expedited as a matter of urgency.