Once permission is granted, the six-year construction phase will begin in 2026. Credit: National Highways.

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.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Related Company Profiles

View all

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.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

“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.