Lower Thames Crossing Gas Diversion Project
Project overview
National Gas is carrying out essential work near Thong Lane, Gravesend, to divert gas pipelines ahead of the construction of the Lower Thames Crossing.
These diversions are needed to maintain a safe and reliable gas supply while making room for the new road crossing. Completing the work now will help minimise disruption later and support the efficient delivery of the Lower Thames Crossing.
The diversion works are being carried out by our contractor, A.Hak.
For more information about the wider works for Lower Thames Crossing please visit: Lower Thames Crossing - National Highways
We're working with the Community Wood Recycling initiative
As part of our commitment to reducing waste and supporting local communities, all waste timber generated during these diversion works will be collected and recycled by Community Wood Recycling.
Nothing will go to landfill. Instead, 100% of the wood collected will be reused or recycled.
You can find out more about Community Wood Recycling by visiting their website.
At community wood stores, reclaimed timber is transformed into a range of products, including planters, bird boxes, benches and bookcases.
The initiative also creates opportunities for volunteers and trainees to develop practical skills, gain confidence and improve employability, while working alongside experienced craftspeople. By partnering with Community Wood Recycling, we're ensuring that materials from our project continue to deliver benefits long after the works are complete.
Q&As
Why this work is needed
National Gas has an obligation to divert the existing gas pipelines to enable the delivery of the Lower Thames Crossing in the area.
Moving the pipelines will help maintain a safe and reliable gas supply while ensuring the new road can be built. The work will also meet national engineering and safety standards.
Where the work will take place
The work will be carried out around Thong Lane, near Gravesend in Kent.
What is happening now?
Our contractor, A.Hak, is currently setting up on site ahead of the main works. You may notice signs and security fencing being installed, as well as members of the project team working in the area.
From mid-September, we will begin building access roads and temporary compounds needed to support the diversion works.
How long will the work take?
We are currently preparing for the diversion works, which are expected to begin in autumn 2026 and continue until 2028.
Once the diversion is complete, we will restore the site and remove temporary infrastructure. All of National Gas’ works are expected to be complete by early 2029.
What to expect during the works
Some activities may be noticeable to people living and working nearby. These could include:
- Construction vehicles travelling to and from the site
- Temporary changes to local access arrangements, including public footpaths
- Temporary traffic management, such as lane closures or diversions
- Construction of access roads and temporary compounds
We will do all we can to minimise disruption and keep local communities informed about upcoming activities.
Keeping impacts to a minimum
We’re committed to working closely with local communities and stakeholders throughout the project. This includes:
- Providing advance notice of work that may cause disruption
- Keeping local authorities, parish councils and elected representatives informed
- Responding to questions and enquiries from the community
- Taking practical steps to reduce noise and disruption wherever possible
Why the work is needed
National Gas has an obligation to divert the existing gas pipelines to enable the delivery of the Lower Thames Crossing in the area.
The diversion will ensure continued reliable gas transmission across the region, as well as compliance with national engineering and safety standards
Managing impacts
We are committed to working closely with the community and stakeholders throughout the project. This includes:
- Providing advance notice of works that may cause disruption
- Keeping local authorities, parish councils, and elected representatives informed throughout the process
- Monitoring and responding to community enquiries
- Taking steps to reduce noise and disruption where practicable