Major transport investment milestone marked at Ebbsfleet’s Bean Road

A groundbreaking event has taken place at the site of the future Bean Road underpass in Ebbsfleet today (Thursday 23 April), marking an important step forward for the project ahead of an anticipated start on construction later this spring.

The Bean Road underpass is a key part of Kent County Council’s (KCC) Fastrack programme, which aims to deliver fast, reliable and sustainable public transport connections across Kent Thameside, supporting housing growth, jobs and regeneration.

Once constructed, the scheme will see a 75‑metre underpass built beneath the B255 Bean Road, creating a direct route for Fastrack buses, pedestrians and cyclists between Whitecliffe (formerly Eastern Quarry) and Bluewater Shopping Centre, with improved onward links to Ebbsfleet International Station.

Following a competitive tender process, Erith Contractors Limited were appointed to deliver the construction works, with the construction contract valued at £18.6 million. The total value of the scheme is £25.5 million.

A significant proportion of the funding for the scheme has been secured from the Department for Transport through the Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) funding and Ebbsfleet Development Corporation, alongside contributions from Bluewater and Eastern Quarry Limited. This funding is ringfenced specifically for improvements to bus and sustainable transport infrastructure and cannot legally be redirected to other highway projects.

Preparatory activity has already taken place on site, including initial site setup, vegetation clearance and specialist surveys. These works are being carried out in anticipation of the main construction phase, which is expected to begin once all pre‑commencement planning conditions have been discharged.

Subject to this, the anticipated construction programme is expected to last around 15 months, with completion forecast for summer 2027.

Peter Osborne, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “This project is a strong example of effective partnership working, with KCC bringing together government and local partners to deliver real improvements for the area.

‘The funding secured for the Bean Road underpass is ringfenced specifically for bus and sustainable transport infrastructure, enabling us to invest in a scheme that improves connectivity while supporting growth in Ebbsfleet.

‘Today’s groundbreaking event marks an important step forward for the project as we move toward an anticipated start on construction.”

Sara Waller, CEO of Ebbsfleet Development Corporation said: “We are delighted to have reached this milestone in partnership with Kent County Council and Department for Transport, combining all of our investment to make this project happen.

“This project is about improving everyday journeys - making it easier for people to travel, work and move around the area – from Dartford, to Greenhithe and Ebbsfleet and onto Northfleet and Gravesend. Bringing immediate benefit to existing residents and helping to shape that place for future residents.

“As Ebbsfleet continues to grow, investments like this are essential, supporting long-term development, improving daily life through stronger connectivity and accessibility, and linking the new town of Ebbsfleet to its existing neighbours.

“We look forward to the positive impact this project will bring for those living in and travelling through the area.”

Andrew Waldron, Operations Director at Erith, added: “Collaboration is at the heart of Erith’s approach. The Bean underpass project is being progressed with a strong focus on early engagement, clear communication and close cooperation with the client, designers, local authorities and affected stakeholders, helping to ensure the scheme is delivered efficiently and sensitively from pre‑construction through to completion.

‘This project exemplifies the type of complex, high‑value infrastructure challenge where Erith’s expertise adds real value. We are proud to play a part in delivering a scheme that improves connectivity, enhances safety and leaves a lasting positive impact for the local community.”

For the latest on the Bean Road Underpass, visit: Bean Road Fastrack Scheme - Kent County Council

Find out more about Ebbsfleet Development Corporation: Homepage - Ebbsfleet Garden City