The proposed Lower Thames Crossing junction with the M25 and Ockendon Road bridge (credit: Highways England)
Highways England had previously promised it would give people from Havering a concession when using the route, which will be between North Ockendon and Thong, in Kent.
But it has now performed a u-turn and only residents of Thurrock and the borough of Gravesham in Kent will be given a discount on toll charges.
No explanation has been given by Highways England for the decision, despite the fact that the route begins in Havering.
Senior political figures in Havering are also angry that a consultation was closed early due to the coronavirus pandemic, meaning not everyone could submit their views.
Tensions are growing and it is not out the question that Havering could pull its support for the controversial project, which Thurrock Council opposes in its current form.
The leader of Havering Council, Damian White, told Time 107.5: “This new crossing is going to have a significant impact on the local roads, particularly when there’s a significant amount of traffic or accidents on the M25, so I think it’s only fair that residents of Havering should be treated equally with residents of Thurrock and Gravesham.
“Our borough is hosting a significant amount of this so we should be treated equally.”
The leader of Havering Council, Damian White
“Because we are significantly going to be impacted on our local roads, it’s important that our residents can benefit from some form of concessionary charging rate, otherwise it’s just blatantly unfair.
“It’s important that everyone in the area makes their voice known.
“The Council is launching a petition; we’re going to urge everyone across Havering and hopefully the South-East to sign our petition, to show that this is something that is manifestly unfair.”
Residents can back the Council’s fight for a local Havering discount by signing the Lower Thames Crossing petition here.
Tags: Kent, Havering, Romford, Thurrock
