A stretch of the A12 that was first built in the 1960s is set to be resurfaced for the first time as part of a £4million Highways England scheme.
Work to improve the surface from junctions 22 for Colemans and 24 Kelvedon Bypass is set to begin on Friday.
The works come as part of a multi-million pound scheme to help revitalise roads nationwide – which also entails repairing potholes, replacing kerbs, clearing drains and installing new road markings and studs.
Karl Brooks, programme delivery manager at Highways England, said: “Up to 80,000 drivers use this stretch of the A12 every day for work journeys and home deliveries, visits to friends and family, holidays, and the movement of the goods and services.
“The surface of this road was laid in the 1960s, and despite serving us well it’s coming towards the end of its life and needs a vital upgrade. Our work will make this stretch of the A12 smoother and safer, ensuring it is fit for the future.”
The road closure will run for seven consecutive weekends, with the road set to be closed in both directions between junctions 19 for Chelmsford and 25 for Marks Tey.
A Highways England spokesman said working through the weekend, rather than on weekdays, will help see the number of closures required halved.
During northbound closures, motorists will be diverted off the A12 at junction 19 onto the A130, before re-joining via the A120 at junction 25. Traffic will follow the same diversion route for the southbound closures.
