by Jo James, chief executive of Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce

After many years spent talking about it, and then consulting on it, I eagerly awaited the Department for Transport’s chosen option for a new Lower Thames Crossing.

Having heard the outcome, I am not sure if I felt disappointed, frustrated or pleased. Clearly mixed emotions.

I was disappointed a definite decision has not yet been made.

I was certainly frustrated that the longer it takes to come to a decision, the further away it gets from being built.

But I was definitely pleased that option B has been ruled out, which is essential for the proposed Paramount theme park on the Swanscombe Peninsula to move forward.

If this option had been chosen it would have been disastrous for our county and the South East as a whole. I can’t see many opportunities on the horizon that would bring £2bn of investment and create 27,000 jobs.

Sometimes I wish those with the power would just be bold enough to make a decision.

I know that it needs to be the right decision ,not just for now, but for years to come. There is no doubt there will be growth in the South East and we need to have the right infrastructure in the right place to cope effectively.

Driving into work I heard on the radio from a group who were in opposition to a new crossing.

They were saying they were glad a decision has not yet been made because it will allow time to see if the introduction of free-flow tolling in October 2014 will solve the problem.

Who knows? It might solve or ease traffic congestion for now. But we should not be looking at now. We should be looking ahead.

Let’s not be under any illusions. Traffic will increase as the South East continues to grow.

Without extra capacity, the existing crossing will not cope and we will all suffer from lengthy delays.

That comes at a cost and could hinder economic growth.