THE county’s police chief has pledged his officers’ support to keep the A12 flowing while roadworks continue.

National Highways began reconstructing the major route between Marks Tey and Stanway in October last year and expects to complete the work early next year.

Motorists are bound by a 50mph speed limit between the Spring Lane junction at Colchester and Marks Tey on both carriageways while a contraflow system is in place.

But the route has been fraught with accidents while the works have taken place.

Chief Constable of Essex Police Ben-Julian Harrington said his officers will support National Highways where they can.

He said: “We do work with the highways authority to make sure we can keep that road flowing.

“We work with them as there is potential not only for frustration but for accidents too.

“The A12 is the main highway through Essex so we do a lot of work and proactive patrols.”

Police officers have previously been tasked with enforcing the speed limit in London Road, Copford, which has been used by motorists avoiding the works.

Further signage has also been installed.