The long-awaited West Thurrock Relief Road has come a step closer this week with the Government allocating £2m to the project for next year.

In December 2000 the Government agreed that grants of around £8m would be available for the project - aimed at taking heavy lorries away from busy residential streets - but the money was not expected to be released until 2003 or 2004.

But now, although Thurrock Council and the Government have still to complete negotiations and agree final details, the first part of that £8m should be available in the next few months.

"It's great news for motorists and a great Christmas present for West Thurrock," said John Kent, Thurrock's cabinet member for regeneration.

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Published Tuesday December 18, 2001