A new skills taskforce for the Lower Thames Crossing (LTC) has been launched by Lord David Blunkett to ‘help develop the green skills needed’ to meet the project’s low-carbon targets.
Focusing on the LTC project and decarbonising the UK construction industry, the taskforce will also look at new jobs and business opportunities for the local community.
Chaired by Lord Blunkett, the taskforce members include Jen Craft, MP for Thurrock, Dr Lauren Sullivan, MP for Gravesham, Cllr Lynn Worrall, leader of Thurrock Council and Cllr John Burden, leader of Gravesham Council.
It also includes representatives from local education providers, business groups and trade unions.
According to National Highways, the LTC project is expected to create a local workforce by employing at least 45% of the workforce from within 20 miles of the route and at least 20% from the most impacted boroughs.
The national roads operator plans to spend at least £800m with SMEs and expects to open skills hubs along the new route that will offer ‘training and mentoring to help local people access new and better paid jobs on their doorstep’.
Lord Blunkett said: ‘Major infrastructure projects like the Lower Thames Crossing aren’t just about what we build. They have the power to transform lives by providing meaningful, long-term opportunities for people from all walks of life.
'I’m honoured to serve as Skills Advisor to the project and to chair the Skills Taskforce. This independent group, made up of education leaders, trade unions, industry experts, MPs, and Council leaders, will hold the project to account, test progress, and challenge the project to go further.’
