A week of traffic chaos caused by major roadworks across Colchester has forced local authorities into an apology to residents. Drivers were infuriated after a combination of traffic restrictions and closures in Old Heath Road, Wimpole Road, Magdalen Street, Brook Street, Clingoe Hill, Mile End Road and Northern Approach Road left the city gridlocked.
Some of the roadworks, such as those in Clingoe Hill and Northern Approach Road, are part of long-term infrastructure projects, says the Gazette.
Others were classified as emergency repairs, so did not require utilities companies to obtain a permit from Essex County Council, the authority in charge of roads and highways.
The congestion coincided with a major incident on the A12 on the evening of Wednesday 23 April which closed the southbound carriageway for over seven hours.
County Hall and Colchester Council have come under fire from residents and politicians who have criticised the roadworks for being allowed to take place at the same time, with Mile End councillor Martin Goss labelling Essex Highways “incompetent” and County Hall admitting that scheduling unplanned roadworks had proved challenging. Both authorities apologised for the disruption and frustration the roadworks had caused residents.
Colchester Council leader David King said the works needed to be “better planned, timed, and delivered”.
He said: “We hear the concerns of our residents loud and clear. We know how frustrating the recent congestion has been. While some of the works are essential for public safety and long-term improvements, they need to be better planned, timed, and delivered.”
He continued: “The city council will work with Essex County Council and all relevant partners to help make smarter decisions, to better inform the public, and minimise disruption wherever possible.”
(Pic: Mapillary)
