Campaign groups are urging the government to cancel major road building schemes, including the £9bn Lower Thames Crossing, to redirect funds into rail and public transport. The Transport Secretary, Louise Haigh, is set to decide on the development consent order for the crossing. A £22bn financial shortfall has prompted Labour to seek savings by axing road projects deemed poor value for money by Treasury calculations. Campaign for Better Transport estimates cancelling the Lower Thames Crossing and other road projects could save £10.5bn. They argue for investing in maintaining existing roads and upgrading rail freight routes instead.
The Transport Action Network has recommended pausing or axing 16 road schemes totaling over £15bn, suggesting a possible redirection of road funds to rail by the government. Comments from rail minister Lord Hendy hint at a review of spending across transport modes. National Highways defends the need for the Lower Thames Crossing due to traffic demands east of London. However, campaign groups criticize the project, saying it contradicts the government’s net zero commitments and worsens congestion.
Proposed rail freight upgrades, such as those from the Channel tunnel to Wembley and electrification of tracks to key ports, could cost significantly less than road schemes while reducing carbon emissions. Maggie Simpson of Rail Freight Group emphasizes the importance of investing in rail freight for economic growth and climate goals. The government is yet to comment on the campaign group’s calls to cancel major road projects and repurpose funding for more sustainable transport options.
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