THE Government is to look at options for a new road bridge across the River Thames, it has been announced.
The bridge would be in addition to the Dartford-Thurrock River Crossing on the M25 east of London.
Three possible sites have been identified for the new crossing.
The first is at the site of the existing crossing. The second would link the Swanscombe Peninsula in Kent with the A1089 and the third would be east of the port of Tilbury in Essex and would cross to a point east of Gravesend in Kent.
The potential schemes were outlined in a study published by Transport Minister Lord Adonis.
The study also said further work should be carried out to identify whether short term improvements could be delivered to provide a smoother flow of traffic at the existing crossing.
Lord Adonis said: "The Dartford-Thurrock river crossing is a vital transport link for both the national and south east England economies which has brought huge economic benefits and opportunities.
"However many more vehicles want to use the crossing than it can accommodate and congestion here is likely to get worse in the future unless something is done.
"Following the completion of the first phase of a Department for Transport-commissioned study, I am pleased to announce that further work is now to be carried out to look at improving journey time reliability and safety at the existing Dartford Crossing, alongside a more detailed analysis of potential options for a new crossing."
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