A SPEED limit of 40mph will be in place on a stretch of the A12 for at least two months while a bridge is strengthened.

The restriction will be in place for four miles in both directions while repairs are carried out to Wellington Bridge in Hatfield Peverel.

Preparatory work starts on Monday.

The speed limits will be in place between junctions 19 for Boreham and 20b for Hatfield Peverel North from Monday, August 5.

Work will last for at least two months.

The bridge needs to be strengthened after two vehicles crashed into it, three years ago and last year.

Ranjit Mistry, from the Highways Agency, said: “A 40mph will be in place 24 hours a day while work is carried out.

“There will be some carriageway and slip road closures required, but we will ensure these are carefully planned to minimise disruption during peak travel times.”

Work to install 40mph signs and speed cameras during for the scheme will start on Monday.

There will be single lane closures between 8pm and 6am until Saturday, August 3.

Two nights of full carriageway closures will take place on Saturday, August 3 (London-bound), and Sunday, August 4 (Colchester-bound) to narrow the lanes.

Traffic will be diverted on the B1137 through Hatfield Peverel and Boreham.
Work will take place 24 hours a day until the scheme is completed in October.