Representation by Rob Sibley
- Date submitted
- 20 February 2023
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
The proposed river crossing is extraordinarily expensive and the wrong solution for traffic congestion at the existing Dartford crossing. Congestion at the Dartford crossing principally occurs for Northbound traffic through the tunnels. Southbound traffic over the bridge generally flows smoothly. Northbound congestion is partly caused by convoys of fuel tankers being escorted through the tunnel whilst other users are stopped. Also, the west tunnel is narrow. Therefore a solution focusing on Northbound traffic should be developed. Examples might include - Government policy is to phase out the use of petrol and diesel for vehicles and so by the time the proposed crossing is operational, these fuel tankers may not be in use. - However if new infrastructure is deemed essential then cheaper solutions to that proposed might include a new fuel pipeline below the Thames and associated tanker facilities on the south side of the river. Alternatively, an additional northbound tunnel at Dartford. In addition - Traffic congestion caused during the construction phases of the proposed massive A2 junction is not acceptable. - Traffic rerouting from the Dartford crossing/M25/M20 corridor to the proposed tunnel/A2/Bluebell Hill junction/M20 route will increase traffic congestion at the already overloaded Bluebell Hill junction. - Local access around the proposed A2 junction is not acceptable with for example, access to/from Shorne Woods country park far inferior to current arrangements.