Making journeys across the region quicker, safer and more reliable The Lower Thames Crossing (LTC) is a new road connecting Kent and Essex, through a tunnel beneath the River Thames. It’s designed to tackle congestion at the Dartford Crossing. The new route will help grow the economy across the UK by almost doubling road capacity across the east of London and make journeys across the region quicker, safer and more reliable. It will give millions of people more choice on where they live, work and spend their valuable time. The Bouygues Travaux Publics-Murphy (BMJV) joint venture will be delivering the design and construction of twin road tunnels under the River Thames, which at 2.6 miles will be the longest in the UK. The 16.4 metres wide tunnel boring machine will excavate one of the widest tunnels in the world, allowing three lanes of traffic in each direction. The contract also includes the tunnel systems, portal buildings, and approach roads. In 2025, the UK government confirmed its support and funding, giving the green light to start building the Lower Thames Crossing in 2026 and putting it on track to open in the early 2030s. Bouygues Travaux Publics–Murphy Joint Venture will also create two ecological habitats, a wetland for migrating birds and two public parks – Tilbury Fields in Thurrock, and Chalk Park in Gravesham – and new or improved pathways for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. KEY FACTS Connecting Kent and Essex to tackle congestion at the Dartford Crossing Bouygues Travaux Publics-Murphy joint venture will be delivering the design and construction of twin road tunnels under the River Thames One of the widest tunnels in the world when complete
