Waveney MP Peter Aldous said that proving a third crossing would pay for itself twice over may sound like a big obstacle.

So what economic benefit would a new bridge, tunnel or barrage system bring to the area? Joanne Lyon, project and programme manager at Mouchel – the consultancy firm tasked with drawing up the business plan for the third crossing – said the firm was looking at what benefits relieving road congestion would have on the area.

She said the company was also keen to explore whether it would help pedestrians and cyclists, as well as motorists.

However Mr Aldous said: 'I think it will be a combination of a whole lot of things.

'From the people I've spoken to, the lack of a crossing has prevented people expanding their business here.'

He also said that although footfall is good in Lowestoft town centre, some shoppers may be put off by the traffic problems and go to Beccles instead.

And reducing traffic in Station Square could open up the potential for greater development of that area, bringing in a further economic boost, he explained.