I started writing this month’s column with the intention of reflecting on the high and lows of 2015 but we’ve been there, done that and got the T-shirt.

It’s in the past. What’s important is what the coming 12 months has in store.

There are three key decisions the government could make in 2016, which would all give some certainty, stability and reassurance to businesses in Kent and beyond.

Firstly, there’s the decision on the preferred site for a lorry area to put an end to Operation Stack, where the M20 becomes a massively expensive car park for lorries when there is disruption crossing the Channel.

The consultation is open until Monday, January 25, so I urge you to make time to respond and have your say.

"Like you, I don’t want to be discussing these same issues in 2017 and beyond. As businesses we deserve better..." - Jo James, Kent Invicta Chamber

Secondly, a decision on the planned route for a new Lower Thames Crossing. For all our sakes, I sincerely hope that a decision can be reached and the best option for business chosen.

By that I mean Option C, to the east of Gravesend.

Admittedly it’s not the cheapest option and I hope that government look at the longer-term benefits and not look at the crossing cost in isolation.

Finally, there is the long-awaited decision on additional airport capacity.

With the decision being put back yet again, it certainly can’t be doing much for our international reputation.

With other international hubs strengthening their capacity and gaining momentum, lets hope by the time our government gets round to making the decision that we haven’t missed the boat.

So all in all, if I had to sum up the key work of the Chamber in 2016, it would be lobbying, lobbying and then more lobbying. Like you, I don’t want to be discussing these same issues in 2017 and beyond. As businesses we deserve better.

Business has got us out of the 2008 recession. We have gained momentum and generated wealth.

Now is the time for payback!