Colchester Zoo visitors warned of delays due to roadworks in Stanway

The zoo will reopen to visitors on Monday after three months of enforced closure due to the national coronavirus lockdown.

However, visitors to the Maldon Road attraction may have to take an alternative route due to works taking place on Western Approach in Stanway.

The road is being widened as part of Churchmanor Estates' Stane Retail Park development.

There is set to be months of disruption in the area as closures take place in two stages.

Western Approach has closed from the Western Approach roundabout to the Essex Yeomanry Way roundabout.

The same road will then be shut from the London Road roundabout to the Western Approach roundabout.

Read more:

• Colchester Zoo confirms it will be open on April 12
• What are the rules when visiting Colchester Zoo after lockdown?
• Drivers face delays for road widening works in Tollgate, Stanway

The first closure is started on March 2 and lasts until June 22.

The second is scheduled from August 6 until September 17.

A diversion route is in place via Western Approach, London Road, Tollgate Roundabout, Essex Yeomanry Way, the Halstead Road roundabout, A1124 Halstead Road, the A12 slip from Stanway, the A12 slip to Stanway and Essex Yeomanry Way.

The diversion route will mean the route for some residents to the zoo will be disruption.

A spokesman for the zoo said: "As we get closer to reopening, please note that when you do journey to Colchester Zoo you may be required to follow a diversion route, due to roadworks taking place on the Western Approach by Sainsbury’s Stanway.

"As a result, traffic may be high in this area, so we advise that you allow some extra time for your journey or plan an alternative route to ensure you arrive on time for your entry time slot at the zoo."

For more information on the zoo's reopening plans, visit www.colchester-zoo.com.