A HUGE section of the A12 near Colchester is set to be resurfaced as part of a multi-million pound project to help drivers benefit from smoother and safer journeys.

National Highways has unveiled a £205 million scheme to improve roads, pavements, and bridges across the east of England over the next 12 months.

As part of the grand plans, engineers will carry out resurfacing works on the A12’s southbound carriageway between the Ardleigh Crown Interchange and Stanway.

New road markings and studs will also be implemented on the A120 between Marks Farm and Marks Tey, according to the new and ambitious proposal.

Gazette:

As a result of the improvements, it is hoped motorists, pedestrians and cyclists across the region will all benefit from an enhanced experience. 

Martin Fellows, National Highways’ regional director, said: “It’s vital National Highways’ motorways and major A-roads are kept in good condition to make sure they remain safe, reliable, and keep traffic in the east moving.  

“This investment means we can continue our work to deliver smoother road surfaces, safer bridges, improved signs, dedicated safe spaces for cyclists and enhancements to the surrounding environment throughout the region.”

This latest investment comes after National Highways pumped £203 million into the completion of more than 75 road renewal and maintenance projects. 

READ MORE: A12 roadworks near Colchester postponed as works cause significant hour-long delays

Richard Holden, roads minister, added: “[This work] is vital for keeping the road users connected and the economy moving across the East.” 

Work on the maintenance and improvement scheme started last month, with National Highways also continuing an extensive programme of concrete road upgrades.  

Many concrete roads were laid more than 40 years ago and decades of use has left the road in need of vital upgrades.

The plan is to create a smoother road surface, reduce noise for motorists and nearby residents and improve safety.