A MULTI-billion pound crossing will be a major boost for jobs and business, council officials claim.

Basildon Council is set to back Highways England’s plans for the new Lower Thames Crossing in the road authority’s consultation.

The council’s infrastructure and inclusive growth committee will consider the authority’s response at a meeting on Thursday.

A report outlines how the crossing will give firms access to the ports and business opportunities in Essex and Kent.

It said: “Basildon Council continues to strongly support the proposal for a new Lower Thames Crossing.

“It will make the region’s road network more resilient, will provide a boost to regional and national economies through increased connectivity, and unlock opportunities for economic growth, including new training and job opportunities during construction.

“Although the proposed crossing route does not run through Basildon, it has a junction with the A13 in Thurrock, and will therefore provide a more direct access into Kent and the channel ports than is currently the case with the existing crossing at Dartford for residents and businesses in Basildon.

“The council recognises the broader economic benefits and opportunities the new crossing will create through reliable access and reduced journey times, thereby attracting businesses to the area, albeit less is known with regards to the types of businesses that could ultimately be attracted to the area.”

The report states the project will help boost skilled jobs, training and careers based around science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

It also highlights how Highways England is pledging to back training and workshops for borough businesses to teach employees the crossing’s impact.

The report says the construction project will highlight to young people the ranging careers available to those with a background in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

The plans for the crossing include the road to link to the A2 and M2 in Kent, a link to the A13 in Thurrock and the M25 in Havering.

The tunnel crossing is located to the east of Gravesend on the south of the River Thames and to the west of East Tilbury on the north side.

Highways bosses say the crossing will cost about £6.8billion, but investment in other roads is also likely to be necessary.