NATIONAL Highways has been accused of "environmental vandalism" after claims that badger setts are being blocked as preliminary work begins on the £10 billion Lower Thames Crossing.

The controversial scheme, which has been approved by the government but as yet has no financial backing, will link Kent and Essex via a tunnel under the Thames, and a carriageway that will cut through swathes of Thurrock's green belt.

Campaigners and councillors have warned the impact on wildlife could be severe.

National Highways has insisted the relocation of badgers is legal and ethical.

Gary Byrne, Independent councillor for The Homesteads, said residents fear badgers are being forced out in west Tilbury ahead of construction.

He said: "The proposed Lower Thames Crossing comes with a devastating hidden cost – one that can't be measured in pounds, but in the loss of our countryside, wildlife, and local character.

"This project will split Thurrock in two, cutting straight through our green belt land — the very spaces that protect our environment, support wildlife, and offer residents vital breathing space."

Mr Byrne accused National Highways of sanctioning the destruction of habitats under the guise of "ecological mitigation".

He added: "Badger setts are being sandbagged and sealed, with the approval of Natural England, who have issued licences allowing what they describe as 'ecological mitigation works'.

"That phrase sounds harmless but in reality, it means forcing badgers and other wildlife from their homes so that construction crews can move in and tarmac over their habitats. This is not mitigation. This is environmental vandalism carried out under licence by the very agencies meant to protect nature."

Matt Jackson, from the Thames Crossing Action Group, said: "We hope National Highways aren't damaging badger setts and causing harm to other wildlife along the LTC route corridor. Safeguarding our countryside and wildlife should be properly managed as the project enters this new phase."

A spokesperson for National Highways said: "We are committed to building the Lower Thames Crossing in a way that not only protects local wildlife, but creates bigger, better and more connected habitats across Kent and Essex. We work closely with ecologists to ensure badgers are not harmed and have time and space to move to safe locations away from where the new road will be built."

The works are being carried out under a Natural England licence and follow extensive consultation after consent was granted in March 2025.