MORE than 47,000 people took part in a consultation for a new Lower Thames Crossing, according to Highways England.

The consultation, which closed two months ago, invited views on proposed routes for a new road crossing below the Thames.

The amount of public interest makes it the largest ever public consultation for a UK road project, Highways England revealed. 

Highways England consultation manager Martin Potts said: “This is a fantastic level of engagement, and I am grateful to everyone who took the time to take part in the consultation.  

“We set out to reach as many people as possible, to let them know about our plans and to seek their views, and public’s response has exceeded our expectations. 

“The route for a new Lower Thames Crossing is a massive decision and it is vital that we get it right.”

The responses are now being analysed before a final decision on a preferred route is made by the government, expected later this year.  

The consultation invited views on proposed routes for a new road crossing below the Thames, which would be the first new road crossing for the Thames east of London for 25 years.

Subject to the necessary funding and planning approvals, the new crossing would be open in 2025, if financed by the public. 

If private funding is also used to meet the costs of the project, it is anticipated the crossing would be open by 2027.