The Essex Chambers of Commerce has long supported the Lower Thames Crossing (LTC) project, firmly believing that this transformative infrastructure will strengthen both regional and national logistics.
Over the years, we’ve been proud to host events that connect our business community with the project’s leadership. Our latest event, held at the charming Park Inn by Radisson Palace Hotel, offered attendees valuable insights and direct engagement with the LTC team.
The event began with a warm welcome from our Head of Policy, Iain McNab. He shared a brief timeline of the Chambers’ support for the Lower Thames Crossing and also discussed his role at Chambers, encouraging attendees to approach him with any policy-related queries, ranging from devolution to international trade issues such as US tariffs.
Iain then introduced Natalie Bonnick, Head of Supply Chain Development at LTC. Natalie delivered an engaging and informative presentation on the project’s current status, particularly following the Government’s approval of the Development Consent Order in March.
Natalie emphasised the scale and urgency of the LTC. With frequent journey delays at the Dartford Crossing, where freight vehicles make up a large portion of traffic, congestion is a significant bottleneck for national trade and goods distribution.
The LTC will be the largest road project in the county in over three decades. Spanning 14 miles and featuring a 2.6-mile tunnel, the longest in the UK, the project aims to be operational by 2032/33. The expected benefits include easing pressure on the Dartford Crossing, boosting regional economic activity, and creating employment and skills development opportunities.
A key component of the LTC is its commitment to leaving a lasting skills legacy. To this end, Skills Hubs are being established in both Essex and Kent, providing government-funded training to address the skills gap. These hubs will not only support the LTC project but also serve the long-term needs of local industries.
Natalie also underscored LTC’s strong focus on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The project has a legal obligation to engage with local businesses and is actively simplifying procurement processes for SMEs through both direct and partner-led initiatives.
In fact, 33% of the total project spend, £1 in every £3, is earmarked for SMEs, with a focus on engaging businesses within a 20-mile radius of the project, especially those based in Essex and Kent.
Natalie’s presentation sparked a lively and productive discussion, with many attendees queuing afterward to explore how their businesses could get involved.
Events like these are vital for connecting local companies with transformative opportunities and for strengthening our regional business networks. It was also a fantastic occasion for members to meet and collaborate with other Essex-based enterprises.
If you’re interested in seeing how our networking events can support your growth, don’t miss our next gathering at the iconic Fenwick department store in Colchester on Wednesday, 2 July. We’d be delighted to welcome you.
Read more of our Latest News stories.
06.06.2025
