UK National Highways has chosen construction company Skanska as the preferred bidder for the Kent Roads contract on the Lower Thames Crossing project.
The Lower Thames Crossing is a planned new route that intends to link Kent and Essex via what is said to be the UK’s longest road tunnel. It is intended to relieve congestion at the Dartford Crossing, which has been operating for 60 years.
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Kent Roads is the second of the three significant National Highways contracts for the Lower Thames Crossing.
This £450m Kent Roads contract will involve the construction of the southern section of the route connecting the A2/M2 to the tunnel approach, including nearly four miles of new road and structures, green bridges, a new public park, and 12 miles of newly constructed or enhanced pathways.
Skanska will also assist National Highways’ objectives to hire 45% of its staff from within 20 miles by upskilling locals with additional qualifications and training. It expects to exceed the project’s aim of spending £1 in every £3 on construction with SMEs.
Lower Thames Crossing Procurement director Katharina Ferguson said: “Skanska has a track record of providing innovative low-carbon solutions to projects and leaving a genuine legacy of skills and innovation in the local community.
“We look forward to working together to deliver this desperately needed piece of new infrastructure in a way that pushes the boundaries in low-carbon construction and social value.”
The commencement of construction is conditional on government financing and approval. Once permission is granted, the six-year construction phase will begin in 2026.
