Thong Lane ecological assessments
Case reference EIR2026/00685
Received 21 April 2026
Published 17 June 2026
Last amended 18 June 2026
Request
Response
We are committed to building the Lower Thames Crossing in a way that not only protects local wildlife but creates bigger and better-connected habitats across Kent and Essex. We recognise the sensitivity of this area and understand the concerns about ground-nesting birds, including skylarks.
Every activity on site is carefully assessed to protect and reduce impact on local wildlife.
Ecology impact assessment
A full ecological impact assessment was undertaken to support the Environmental Statement which was submitted in support of the Project's application for a Development Consent Order planning application. The relevant chapter within the Environmental Statement which covers ornithology is Chapter 8: terrestrial biodiversity. Paragraphs 8.6.114 - 8.6.129 inclusive address impacts to, and mitigation for, ornithology south of the River Thames which will include the area around Thong village.
The Code of Construction Practice (COCP) and its appendix the Register of Environmental Actions and Commitments details the measures secured to mitigate adverse effects during construction. Those relevant are prefixed by 'TB' (TB001 to TB031), especially:
• TB002 - Maintaining integrity of important habitats adjacent to works
• TB004 - Breeding birds
• TB012 - Breeding birds (temporary loss of nesting habitat)
• TB013 - Displacement of protected/ notable species
• TB015 - Monitoring of pre-existing protected species and important habitats
• TB017 - Translocation of protected species
Our delivery partner is required to undertake these commitments, often in compliance with Natural England licenses or the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, as detailed.
On site assessments and safeguarding
Qualified ecologists and licensed specialists are overseeing the work to ensure it is carried out humanely and at the appropriate time of year. They undertake pre works ecological checks and remain involved throughout site activities to monitor compliance and respond to any emerging ecological issues.
Ecological assessments have been underway for several months to inform the current archaeology activity. These surveys cover a range of protected and notable species and will inform construction methodologies, mitigation measures, and any licensing requirements for the main construction phase.
Targeted nesting bird checks were undertaken prior to our works starting and continue while the work is taking place, including daily pre-work checks each morning. If any active nests are identified within or adjacent to planned archaeological trenching areas, an exclusion zone of at least 30 metres is established. To date, no active nests have been found within the designated trenching zones.
The ecologists also deliver toolbox talks to contractors before works begin, covering ecological constraints, species protection requirements, appropriate reporting procedures, and approved working methods. Following these briefings and checks, ecologists remain on site with the archaeological team throughout the day to monitor bird activity and, where necessary, assess additional areas planned for future trenching.
Fencing on Public Right of Way
In relation to your concern about temporary fencing, this has been installed along the Public Right of Way at this location solely to clearly define the works area and maintain public safety. The footpath remains open, and fencing has been positioned to ensure the safe and unhindered passage of members of the public and welfare of our workforce while archaeological works are undertaken nearby.
Documents
This is National Highways' response to a freedom of information (FOI) or environmental information regulations (EIR) request.
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