en.Wedoany.com Reported - The UK government has confirmed that the £11 billion Thames crossing project will proceed as planned, unaffected by the latest round of public spending cuts.

The project aims to alleviate congestion at the Dartford Crossing and improve transport links between Essex and Kent. Despite years of delays, preparatory work began earlier this year, marking a step forward toward delivery. The Prime Minister previously announced that several transport and energy infrastructure projects would be delayed, scaled back, or cancelled as part of a plan to reallocate £15 billion to increase defense spending. However, the Department for Transport (DfT) has made it clear that the Thames crossing project is not among those affected.

National Highways is currently carrying out preliminary work along the route, including relocating utilities, protecting wildlife habitats, and maintaining heritage sites. Major construction is expected to begin in 2028. The project will create a new road tunnel under the River Thames, providing an alternative route to the heavily congested Dartford Crossing, helping to improve travel reliability for motorists, freight operators, and businesses in the southeast.

The project's retention is partly due to its financing model. Unlike many large transport projects, the Thames crossing is expected to be funded primarily through private investment rather than relying entirely on public funds, reducing its exposure to overall government spending cuts. The government stated that difficult financing decisions are necessary to enhance defense capabilities and ensure sustainable public spending. The Thames crossing remains regarded as a nationally significant infrastructure project that will improve network resilience, reduce congestion, and support long-term economic growth.