RESIDENTS from across Thurrock came together to put in place an action plan going forward to tackle any proposal for a new Thames crossing here in the borough.

Around 150 people gathered at Orsett Village Hall to discuss how best to oppose the proposals, including canvassing residents who aren’t aware of the plans and handing out the consultation far and wide for as many people to get involved as possible.

Residents also discussed the possibility of putting together a donation fund to help pay for a barrister in their fight against the crossing proposals.

George Abbott, of Woolings Close, Orsett, could see a new road run just yards from his front garden if the preferred route three went ahead.

Following the meeting, he said: “The community has really found its voice for this cause. It’s a kind of spirit we didn’t know existed, and it’s really brought the community together. It’s quite staggering. The leadership in this fight has come from the community and its residents.

“We’re all fighting a common goal here. There’s no concerns about who you voted for, of where you live, we’re all united. Everyone here is talking about one thing. If you go to the shops, everyone is talking about it.

Mr Abbott added: “Highways has underestimated Thurrock. They didn’t expect that many people to turn up to its public meetings, and they didn’t expect this kind of reaction from the people here.”

The Government’s preferred route is a tunnel that will land in between Tilbury and East Tilbury, before running through Chadwell St Mary, Orsett and Ockendon before joining the M25.

A number of public meetings are due to take place in Thurrock in the coming weeks in line with the consultation, which runs until March 24. For more information and to take part go to lower-thames-crossing.co.uk