The decision to remove Brentwood high street’s cobble stones and replace them with asphalt has had something of a mixed reaction. Essex County Council was told earlier this year that the cobbled high street in Brentwood has been described as a deathtrap due to poor repair and maintenance, says Essex Live.

The town’s cobbled road surface was installed in 2009 to maintain its history and ‘old-time feel’. Over the past 16 years, the cobbles have fallen into a state of disrepair, leading to calls for significant reconstruction due to safety concerns.

With Cadent closing Brentwood High Street for six weeks due to gas works, Essex Highways has confirmed that they will replace the granite setts with asphalt during this time. This will include removing the cobbles between Crown Street and St Thomas Road.

Essex Highways says that this will create a “smoother and safer” road surface for all users. There have been some mixed opinions regarding the removal, with some locals saying the cobbles ‘gave the high street character’ – and others looking forward to seeing the end of them!

A spokesperson for Essex Highways said: “Safety is our number one priority. Replacing the cobblestone with asphalt will create a smoother driving experience without taking away from the beauty of the area. This decision has been made in consultation with Brentwood Council.

“We are coordinating these works with Cadent Gas to make the most of the temporary road closure, with gas mains due to be upgraded from 15 September and asphalt surfacing from 22 September. We appreciate the patience of residents and road users as these essential upgrades are carried out.

(Pic: Yay Images)