A controversial £8.2billion new Thames crossing linking south Essex and Kent is set to be delayed by two years if plans are agreed.

Yesterday, transport secretary, Mark Harper MP issued a statement where he said whilst the plans for the Lower Thames Crossing will still be examined, if it is granted permission the start of construction would be delayed by two years. 

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He said: "To date we have spent over £800m on planning the Lower Thames Crossing. It is one of the largest planning applications ever, and it is important we get this right.

"We remain committed to the Lower Thames Crossing, and the Development Consent Order process will be an important opportunity to consult further to ensure there is an effective and deliverable plan.

"In order to allow time for this process, and given wider pressures on RIS, we will look to rephase construction by two years."

Thames Crossing Action Group, chairman Laura Blake said: “This is the beginning of the end for this troubled scheme,  Rather than delay, the government should put the scheme out of its misery and cancel it for good, rather than continuing to blight people’s lives,

"The country cannot afford more than £10bilion on a project that is not effective  or fit for purpose, nor deliverable at a time of climate emergency.

“Whilst we welcome this news, we will continue to present our evidence to the Examining Authority as to why the proposed LTC fails to meet scheme objectives and should not be granted permission.  Our fight continues!”

The campaigners say a two year delay could see other policy changes affect decision making too, with the road policy statement currently being reviewed, and the Transport Select Committee’s current inquiry into the strategic road investment strategy.