THURROCK MP Jackie Doyle-Price has asked fellow Essex MPs and Council leaders to oppose Highways England’s preference for a new crossing at Option C Route Three.

In recent weeks Ms Doyle-Price has said her preferred option is Route Four that runs up to the A127 and is now pleading with other politicians in the county to follower her lead.

Last week Brentwood Council leader Louise McKinlay said he preferred option was Route Three, and this week Essex County Council said they want the Government to make a quick decision on the plans once the consultation finishes next week.

Ms Doyle-Price said,: “I am quite clear that Option C Route Three would be disastrous. In particular the effects on South Ockendon, which already bears the brunt when there is congestion at the Dartford crossing. It is important that a new crossing does not cause added pressure onto Thurrock’s road network.

“As Route Three is Highways England’s recommended route, this route has been endorsed by Essex County Council. At present I am a lone voice in making the case for the only option that would work for us.

“I have asked leaders of other councils and my Parliamentary colleagues to examine the proposals and get behind Route Four and reject Option C Route Three which will only add further congestion to the M25 and A13 and will therefore bring no advantage to the rest of Essex.”

At a huge public gathering in Grays on Sunday, Thurrock Council leader claimed Highways England were in favour of Route Four, as opposed to Route Three as they state in the consultation documents.

Hitting back, Ms Doyle-Price said: “It is quite disingenuous for the leader of Thurrock Council to claim that Route Four is Highways England’s preferred option. The consultation paper is quite clear in its recommendation. It is recommending Option C Route Three.

“I cannot understand why I am the only one is being honest about what is facing us. If the leader of the council thinks Route Four is better than Highway England’s preferred route then he should say so otherwise we will end up with Route Three, which we are all agreed must be resisted.”

The consultation closes on March 24. To take part, go to lower-thames-crossing.co.uk