(Report of Director of Planning, Housing and Environmental Health)
The report set out details in respect of an application for a Development Consent Order for the nationally significant infrastructure project at the Lower Thames Crossing. Details of the examination process to be undertaken by the Planning Inspectorate were also set out. It was reported that the Borough Council would be required to prepare a Local Impact Report as part of this process.
Whilst the Borough Council were supportive of the project it was felt that there should be investment in local highways infrastructure to mitigate the impact on the A228 and A229 between the M2 and M20. This was due to the expected displacement of traffic away from the Dartford Crossing, together with additional demand to cross the River Thames, increasing traffic on the local road network.
RESOLVED: That
(1) delegated authority be granted to the Director of Planning, Housing and Environmental Health to formally engage with the Lower Thames Crossing Examination and related negotiations with LTC staff and consultants, to support the Borough Councils efficient engagement in the process.