REPAIRS to a bridge which are still yet to start will result in the closure of the A12 when they finally get underway, highways bosses have now confirmed.

The A12 Severalls Lane bridge suffered major damage in 2020, and although the structure is still usable, only single-file traffic can pass along the road.

As a result, commuters have to queue to get in and out of the Severalls area of Colchester, causing frustration among many.

It has now been revealed the chosen method of repair for the bridge, which involves heat straightening and the replacing of the damaged section, will result in the closure of the A12 for a period when the construction work is finally carried out.

Gazette: Stuck – it may take another two years before repairs even start on the Severalls Lane bridge

However, the work is not expected to begin for another 18 months, meaning the repairs may not be completed until 2025.

A spokesman for National Highways said: “We will still require road closures both over the bridge and on the A12.”

He added, however, the closures would be less disruptive than if the damaged beams were fully replaced.

“This will be minimal compared to the full beam replacement option;  this will benefit the local community and road users as the works will be completed with minimal disruption.

“The option of full beam replacement [would require] major A12 closures resulting diverted traffic through Colchester area.

“We have now concluded that repairs to the damaged area will be sufficient.”

The A12 Severalls Lane bridge crosses over the dual carriageway and heads towards Langham and Great Horkesley.

One Great Horkesley resident, who has sent numerous emails to National Highways and MP for north Essex Sir Bernard Jenkin about the issue, called the length of time it has taken to repair the structure “a typical example of broken Britain.”

He said: “I’ve been sitting at the contraflow traffic lights for the past three years, and even when I got my MP involved, it went nowhere.

“I just find the whole thing incredibly inefficient – it’s taken them three years to come up with a plan.

“These people [in charge of the repairs] are not being held to account, because this isn’t just some little lane – it’s an important artery, so why it’s being treated with such a low profile, I have no idea.”