All quotes to be attributed to Andrew Baxter, Chief Executive Officer at Dartford-headquartered logistics operator, Europa Worldwide Group:
“The Government’s decision to grant development consent for the Lower Thames Crossing (Tuesday 25th March, 2025) is certainly a welcome one. Going forward, the Government must prioritise funding this investment, which will streamline UK supply chains and help grow the economy.
“Logistics UK previously estimated that up to £200 million is lost every year in productivity due to congestion at the Dartford Crossing, with businesses across the country feeling the pressure of delays to delivery and stifled trade.
“For UK exporting businesses – many of whom are key contributors to the UK economy – this can cause thousands of pounds worth of delays, which risks reputations and has huge financial ramifications if consumer demand can’t be met.
“Therefore, we have always supported the campaign for the Lower Thames Crossing. The alternative 23km trade link between Essex and Kent will connect the North, Midlands and Channel Short Straights, where over half of all goods are traded between the UK and EU. Ultimately, this will drive growth for British businesses, offering them more opportunities to trade with their British and European markets, and thus boost our economy.
“There is also a huge personal advantage for people in Dartford, where our 27k sq.ft European road transport hub is located. Currently, more than 300 of our employees must navigate vast amounts of congestion just to get to and from work. Having an alternative route will certainly alleviate the strain on the local population who, rather than spending extra hours stuck in traffic, can spend it in the comfort of their homes.
“If growth is a priority for our government, the importance of an alternative trade route cannot be understated, and it is vital that they find appropriate funding for the investment.
“The Lower Thames Crossing promises a significant solution, streamlining connections across the UK and into Europe, improving transit times, and enabling economic prosperity.”