EVEN though it has given in to public pressure and now organised public consultation events, the government's Highways England agency still seems oblivious to the potential impact of the proposed Lower Thames Crossing on two borough communities.

Last week Thurrock Nub News was able to report that the agency had wilted in the face of criticism and agreed to hold the two physical consultation events in Stanford-le-Hope and Chadwell St Mary.

But their reaction since appears to show they have done so very grudgingly.

The agency says it will not be producing any documentation showing 'ward impact summaries' in Stanford-le-Hope and Corringham, for example, – because it doesn't believe there will be any.

The apparent omission was pointed out by the campaigning Thames Crossing Action Group who asked if the information would be provided, only to receive the following response: "As regards the ward impact summaries, we have included all of the wards where any part of the Order Limits falls within them or that are next to the Dartford Crossing. Stanford-le-Hope West and Stanford East and Corringham Town wards do not include any part of the Order Limits so are not included in the Ward Impact Summaries.

"Information about impacts on the wider area are provided in the consultation materials, including in the Operations Update and the Construction Update."

Action group stalwart Laura Blake says: "The Stanford and Corringham area will most definitely be impacted by the proposed crossing if it goes ahead for many different reasons including the Stanford Detour.

"If like us you don't feel this is acceptable or adequate for a community impacts consultation be sure to make your feelings heard.

"If you're going to the consultation event on 18 August ask them where the ward impact summary is for the area. Email them and ask them - [email protected].

"And most importantly be sure to have your say and include your comments on the lack of ward impact summary for your ward if you live in those areas in your response."