EVERY resident in Thurrock has been treated with “absolute contempt” by the handling of the new Lower Thames Crossing plan, it has been claimed.

Deputy council leader Shane Hebb’s strong comments were made at a meeting which saw the council slam almost every aspect of the proposal. He said the “unbelievable” plan would “completely and severely” affect the future of Thurrock.

The meeting was centred on agreeing a response to a Highway’s England’s public consultation. It aimed to give residents the chance to give their views – in a consultation closing tonight – but the council was told by the Highways Agency a report would be needed that same day, forcing them to agree it nine days ago on December 11.

Councillor Hebb said: “The word that keeps coming up tonight is contempt, not just to the council but against every single resident, business, entrepreneur – anyone who lives and breathes in this borough – Highways England have treated us with absolute contempt.

"I think we are unanimous against the scheme but just saying it will affect people and housing doesn’t add enough gravity to this. The whole scheme is predicated on the fact that there isn’t a single benefit or connection for residents of Thurrock while it is going to plough right through it. It is unbelievable.

"It will completely and severely affect our future landscape and the viability of our borough. We talk about our own children and our children’s children wanting to live in the borough, well this completely rips a great big line through any such plan.

“This is going to be a Thurrock-size Berlin Wall if we’re not careful, sorry to use that expression but it’s true. If we’re not careful there will be a dividing line through this borough.”

The consultation response that was agreed focuses on three main points of objection, highlighting that it fails to adhere to policies, design objectives and does not consider future development.

Councillor Peter Smith, chairman of the Lower Thames Crossing Taskforce, said: “We are united in our objection to this terrible scheme.

“The scheme does not bring any benefits to the people of Thurrock. Highways England need to take a further look at the design so that it can incorporate changes to make sure if the crossing does go ahead, we can make sure that we get the very best outcomes for Thurrock.”

A spokesperson for Highway’s England said: “A new Lower Thames Crossing will bring huge benefits to Thurrock and beyond, connecting communities either side of the Thames.

“We are in almost daily contact with Thurrock Council and have been meeting with them weekly. 

“We are grateful to the council for engaging with the consultation and will continue to work closely with them to develop the best possible project for residents and businesses, as well as the wider region.

“All views are welcome, and we promise that we will take all feedback into account.

“Indeed, the current design includes significant changes to minimise the impact on local communities and the environment.”