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Lower Thames Crossing: Construction

Asked by Olly GloverLiberal DemocratDepartment for TransportTabled Answered 20 March 2026UIN 120591

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, how long before the commencement of publicly funded works on the Lower Thames Crossing will the Full Business Case be published.

Answered by Simon Lightwood

Construction enabling works for the Lower Thames Crossing have now begun on both sides of the River Thames. Ground works are underway to create haul roads and site compounds. Site compounds are under construction and utility works have commenced with connections to these. Ecological and archaeological works are also ongoing, as are extensive pre-construction surveys.

The project continues to progress through the required assurance and governance processes. The next iteration of the business case will be developed ahead of seeking private sector investment.

The project follows the standard Five Case Business Case model used for government projects. Funding decisions continue to undergo rigorous scrutiny and appraisal in line with Department for Transport standards and HM Treasury Green Book principles. The economic dimension of the business case will keep assessing Value for Money alongside the other four dimensions.

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