Small business chiefs are urging the government not to be distracted and fall behind in delivering major infrastructure projects like the £6 billion Lower Thames Crossing.

Deborah Turner, Kent area leader for the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), said the crossing, east of Gravesend, will deliver real economic benefits to enterprise in the county.

She said: "We have long urged ministers to get the project going to prevent gridlock on what are some of the UK’s busiest routes.

"While there have been differences of opinion over where a new Lower Thames Crossing should be located, we welcomed the fact that a choice has been made and money committed.

“As MPs are about to go into summer recess, we want to make it clear that this project is not dropped off the 'to do' list. It is more important now more than ever the government doesn’t get distracted from delivering on infrastructure projects, both large and small.

“Small businesses will be looking for the government to stick to their promises and build the new Lower Thames Crossing so they can achieve their growth ambitions, whatever summer recess or the Brexit final outcome may be.”

A survey of FSB members in Kent, London and Essex revealed almost half (49%) of small business owners think the new infrastructure project would give them better opportunities to reach new customers. More than a third (39%) say it would improve their access to transport hubs, and 28.7% think new markets would be more accessible after the crossing is built.

Of those who took part in the survey, 63 per cent of SMEs said they found traffic congestion a major challenge to their business, and 62 per cent of those surveyed want the government to focus on investment.

Tim Jones, project director of the Lower Thames Crossing said: “The Lower Thames Crossing will be a vital part of the UK's transport infrastructure. It will help businesses grow while connecting communities to jobs, education and leisure opportunities. The new crossing will mean more reliable journeys and fewer delays, opening up more opportunities in the south east – particularly for small businesses – to reach new markets across the UK and Europe.”

The crossing is scheduled to be complete by 2027.