More than 26,000 people had their say on plans to build the Lower Thames Crossing.

The record number of responses reflects the scale of the £6.8 billion project - the largest to be completed on Britain's roads since the M25 was built 30 years ago.

The ten-week consultation began on Wednesday, October 10 and involved 60 events, which were attended by nearly 15,000 people.

It also included a wide-ranging online consultation, with people from every corner of the UK commenting on the proposals.

According to Highways England, the crossing will nearly double road capacity across the River Thames, almost halving northbound journey times at the Dartford Crossing when it opens in 2027.

Residents were urged to have their say on the controversial project before final plans were submitted.

The first consultation attracted 47,000 responses, which was a record for a UK road scheme.

However, it was marred by accusations from some camapaigners that much of the opposition was hidden after Highways England lumped together 13,000 people as just 14 responses.

Tim Jones, project director for the Lower Thames Crossing, said: "The Lower Thames Crossing consultation is arguably the most significant that has ever been held into a UK road scheme, and we have had an excellent response.

"We have endeavoured to ensure that everyone who has an interest has had the chance to have their say so that we can take those views to develop the best possible project.

"I would like to thank everyone who took the time to come to our events and to respond to the consultation. The feedback will play an important role in the evolution of our design.

"We will continue to work with local authorities, communities and stakeholders as we continue to develop our proposals to maximise the benefits and reduce the impact locally, regionally and nationally."

This week, it was revealed testing work for the crossing has been phased to protect Benny the Beluga, who made the Thames his home in September.

The 14.5 mile tunnel had several new features added to the latest plans, after the Government chose to build the route to the east of Gravesend in April last year.

The three-lane dual carriageway will connect the M2 near Rochester and the M25 in Essex, between North and South Ockenden, and motorists are likely to have to pay to use the route.

Highways England will now work through people’s comments in detail and use them to produce an updated design.

This will then be submitted to the Planning Inspectorate for planning consent.

The application and examination process will offer people a further opportunity to share their views on the project.

Subject to statutory processes, construction could start in 2022.