Essex County Council is urging residents to respect itsroad workers as the summer holidays start.

In 2020, the number incidents of abuse rose by 10%. This is despite the significant reduction in traffic flow as a result of COVID restrictions.

With the school holidays now underway, you may see more roadworks taking place. This is because traditionally traffic flows are reduced and disruption can be minimised.

The council is urging road users to plan their journey in advance and be patient if you do come across roadworks this summer.

Traffic management is necessary to protect the travelling public and staff, as safety is always Essex Highways first priority.

The council said it will take the necessary action to protect road users from unlawful and unpleasant behaviour. In many cases CCTV is in operation and operatives wear bodycams which enable us to record and report incidents.

Road workers are working in potentially hazardous environments to make the county’s roads better for all those who use them.

Cllr Lee Scott, Essex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways Maintenance and Sustainable Transport, said: “The workers for Essex County Council and indeed all of our contractors deserve respect. It is not acceptable to be rude or abusive to people who are going about their jobs in the same way as we all do. Please be patient and drive carefully when you’re out near roadworks.”

Residents can report an incident or can pass footage to Essex Police through the Extra Eyes website.