🛣️ The Highways Financing Bill returns to Parliament on 15 October for its second reading, proposing private investment to fund major road projects and reduce reliance on taxpayers’ money.
The Lower #Thames Crossing is the only confirmed project expected to use the new model. Construction has begun on both sides of the Thames, with Europe’s largest tunnelling machine ordered. The twin tunnels will link #Kent and #Essex, aiming to ease congestion at Dartford, improve journey times and support economic growth.
Infrastructure and pension funds are among the expected investors, helping cover construction, operations and maintenance. Government funding is due to continue until 2028, with completion expected in the mid-2030s.
The Office of Rail and Road will regulate tolls and set caps to ensure charges are fair and transparent. The Government says tolls will remain rare and most roads in #England will remain free to use.
https://dft-newsroom.prgloo.com/news/faster-journeys-more-growth-major-roads-projects-to-be-built-without-hitting-taxpayers-pockets
