To approve as a correct record the minutes of the Lower Thames Crossing Task Force meeting held on 17 July 2023.

The minutes of the Lower Thames Crossing Task Force held on the 17 July 2023 were approved as a correct record.

Laura Blake and Robert Quick to be added to the attendees.

To receive additional items that the Chair is of the opinion should be considered as a matter of urgency, in accordance with Section 100B (4) (b) of the Local Government Act 1972.

There were no urgent items of business.

There were no interests declared.

Members were provided with an update from officers.

The following points were raised:

·       It was acknowledged the enormous number of documents and paper work involved as part of this process.

·       Members requested a copy of the written questions and requests for information (ExQ2). Chris Stratford provided these to members following the meeting.

·       Members were provided with information on Public Rights of Way during the process.

·       Members were provided an update on the Wilderness and the status of ancient woodlands.

·       Member noted their disappointment but had not been surprised that the compensation for residents would be the legal minimum.

·       It was acknowledged there had been some good questions raised at the hearings.

·       Members were provided with an explanation as to the change to 140 plots to now 733 plots.

·       Member stated that it was important for residents to have an understanding on the impact LTC would have on local road networks.

·       Member raised a question on the profile of Freeport in terms of the hearing process.

·       Members and officers discussed land disposal by the Council.

·       The Chair requested the task force group be kept updated as much as possible and agreed to meet again in January 2024 to receive a full report.

·       The Chair finished the meeting by thanking all officers and the Thames Crossing Action Group for all the very impressive work being undertaken.

A full recording of this meeting can be found from the following link:

Lower Thames Crossing Task Force - Monday 16 October 2023, 6:00pm - Thurrock Council committee meeting webcasts (public-i.tv)