FRUSTRATED motorists are being forced to chance running red lights because of a signalling malfunction at Severalls Lane Bridge, Colchester.

The bridge has had a one-way traffic system in place for three years after a lorry carrying a digger crashed into the bridge in 2020.

And drivers were left guessing when to cross the bridge today after both sets of traffic lights were permanently stuck on red.

At times, more than a dozen cars were seen queuing up either side of the bridge before the drivers on one side would nudge forward in the hope there were no oncoming vehicles.

Gazette: Problematic – cars have been running red lights on Severalls Lane Bridge because the signals have been stuck on redProblematic – cars have been running red lights on Severalls Lane Bridge because the signals have been stuck on red (Image: Newsquest)

Some drivers gave up waiting and turned around before the traffic started to move.

At one stage, a driver got out of his car and directed traffic to make sure it was safe for cars to pass through.

The bridge has been a source of frustration for drivers for some time since the one-way system was put in place to ease the burden on the already damaged structure.

The Gazette revealed in June repairs may not begin for another 18 months, meaning the bridge may not be fully operational until 2025.

The A12 will also have to close whilst repairs take place.

Essex Highways has been contacted for comment.