A NEW river crossing WILL land in Thurrock, the Government has confirmed.

Despite pleas from Thurrock’s MPs, ministers have refused to look again at options D and E, which would link Kent with Canvey Island or Southend.

At a debate in Westminster, Thurrock MP Jackie Doyle-Price revealed a new crossing next to the current Thurrock to Dartford one - option A - would fail to deal with the borough’s clogged up road network and could lead to the closure of Vopak’s vital West Thurrock fuel terminal - causing problems for the regions fuel supply.

She added option C, landing between Tilbury Fort and Coalhouse Fort in East Tilbury, would also add to traffic woes on the A13.

Ms Doyle-Price criticised Thurrock Council and Essex County Council for their lack of vision, saying “poor leadership” had “let residents down”.

Stephen Metcalfe, the South Basildon and East Thurrock MP, said options D and E could help the growth of Southend Airport.

But transport minister Robert Goodwill, said options D and E would not be revisited. The government is taking a closer look at concerns over options A and C, such as further improvements which may be required on the M25 and A13.