Stephen Metcalfe, MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock, last night spoke at a packed meeting of local residents, councillors, businesses and community representatives in opposition to Option C for a Lower Thames Crossing.
The meeting in Orsett provided interested parties with an opportunity to come together, to receive updates on the current situation and provided a forum through which local people could have their say.
The meeting, Chaired by BBC Essex Radio presenter, James Whale adopted an non-partisan approach and saw politicians from across the political divide come together to present a united front in opposition to this proposal.
The local MP, fresh from a meeting with Transport Minister, Robert Goodwill, was able to inform the group that whilst no decision has been made and that the Government are not leaning either way. This means that Option C is no more likely to be taken forward than Option A, or indeed other options that may be in consideration.
Mr Metcalfe commented: “The public meeting provided an important opportunity for all those interested in the crossing to come together. It is vital that everyone’s views are heard on this issue and it was clear that opposition to Option C remains very strong.”
“I will take what I heard on board and will continue to express my staunch opposition to this option at every opportunity, as well as continuing to push the Government to broaden its ambitions and to re-consider other options further East of the existing crossing."
A similar meeting will take place for Option A in June.
