A joint venture between Bouygues Travaux Publics and Murphy (BMJV) will deliver the main tunnelling works for the major Lower Thames Crossing scheme.
National Highways awarded BMJV the Tunnels and Approaches contract for the new road which will connect Kent and Essex when fully constructed.
The contract includes the design and construction of twin bored tunnels under River Thames, which at 2.6 miles will be the longest in the UK, spanning three lanes 16 metres in width.
It also includes the tunnel systems, portal buildings and approach roads.
The wider £2.3 billion project is designed to tackle congestion at Dartford Crossing, said National Highways.
The delivery team also includes Balfour Beatty and Skanska, who will build the roads north of the Thames, and the roads in Kent, respectively.
The team has committed to develop a local supply chain and provide jobs and skills.
Works could get underway in 2026, government permitting.
Bertrand Burtschell, managing director of Bouygues Travaux Publics, said: “We are excited to work in partnership with National Highways and our joint venture partner Murphy, alongside a range of amazing local supply chain and stakeholder partners to deliver the Lower Thames Crossing Tunnels and Approaches contract on time and on budget, while playing our part in creating a positive long-lasting legacy for the Lower Thames Crossing project in both Kent and Essex.
“Alongside our Lower Thames Crossing delivery partners, we will work tirelessly to deliver a project that is the benchmark for future infrastructure in terms of skills education, employment opportunities, local business growth and exemplar low carbon construction.”
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