A FORUM leader is hoping to set up a public meeting at the Civic Hall in Grays later this year for people to voice their opinions on the idea of a second river crossing.

Peter Saunders, chairman of Chadwell St Mary Forum, is working with Thurrock MP Jackie Doyle-Price to get as many people as possible to the meeting, which is yet to be scheduled, so everyone can air their views.

Jackie spoke at the Chadwell St Mary forum’s most recent meeting and told the 60 residents if they do not want a second crossing people they need to stand up and say why.

Mr Saunders told the Gazette: “We have agreed to get in touch with the other forums in the area that will be affected by the proposals and how an action plan should be developed.

“The main message from the meeting and from Jackie was she does not believe there is enough evidence to support a second crossing and that the present bridge should have the tolls removed to stop the queues.”

Last October the Gazette reported plans for a new £1billion river crossing were gathering pace after it was announced the tolls would be increased at Dartford to pay for a new crossing.

The proposed crossing could be built from Canvey or to the east of Tilbury on the Essex side, and east of Gravesend in Kent.

At the time Norman Hume, county councillor for highways and transport, revealed the tolls and the booths would be scrapped by 2012 in favour of a London congestion charge style scheme.

The Department of Transport said it was going to increase the charges for cars from £1.50 to £2 in 2011 and then £2.50 in 2012.

Mr Saunders added: “I hope to get as many people in the community together as possible so we can all have our say.”

For more information on the meeting, e-mail info@chadwell cf@org.uk