Lower Thames Crossing will congest Medway Towns - say Liberal Democrats

Medway Liberal Democrats have responded to the refinements made to the Lower Thames Crossing (LTC) consultation, and its impact on congestion in an already congested Medway towns.

Andrew Millsom, spokesperson for Medway Liberal Democrats said "We are most concerned about increased traffic flows on the A229 Bluebell Hill in both directions, with no measures being included for this junction in the design refinement consultation.

With the design of the LTC to the A2/M2 junction indicating anticipated traffic growth well exceeding the capacity of slip roads and roundabouts in the earlier schemes, we are calling for mitigation to lessen traffic flow at the Bluebell Hill M2 junction and also Junction 6 of the M20, which already suffer from significant congestion.

It's disappointing that there has been no addressing of the increased traffic flow that will create "bottle necks" along the new route to avoid the Dartford Crossing. The consultation does not consider the aggregate impact of its construction and it shows that at peak times Medway will see an increase in traffic, exposing the effects of poor planning decisions.

We are disappointed that Highways England has not included any residency reduction scheme in the consultation for toll charges for Medway residents in contrast to Gravesham residents who shall be eligible for a discount.

With the proposed crossing located close to our towns, Medway residents and businesses will be using the crossing to commute and transport goods. It is vital that this development works in the best interest of the surrounding community."

ENDS