Calls to shut Weir Lane in Colchester for pothole repairs

Old Heath, Hythe and Rowhedge councillors Lee Scordis and Fay Smalls have come together to demand urgent action to fix issues in Weir Lane, in Colchester.

The road, a key link between Blackheath and Rowhedge and regularly used by commuters, has long been plagued by large potholes.

In recent months “several drivers” are said to have damaged their vehicles due to the craters in the road, which is now run by Essex County Council.

Road - Weir Lane in Colchester (Image: Google)

Motorists have also suggested the damage to their vehicles is worse due to the speed at which they are permitted to travel, given it is a national speed limit road.

Mr Scordis said: "The state of the road is completely unacceptable and to make matters worse cars can drive 60mph down here. 

“We also have the issue of the road flooding as the ditches need to be cleared. 

“For me, the road needs to be closed. 

“It's usually used as a shortcut, and it already closes when firing is occurring on the ranges, so this is not out of the realms of possibility". 

Residents have echoed the councillors' frustration over the condition of Weir Lane.

Dave Smith, from Colchester, previously slammed Essex County Council over the state of the road.

Suffering - a section of Weir Lane riddled with potholes (Image: Public)

Mr Smith told the Gazette his son was left having to pay hundreds of pounds after his tyres were ruined and needed replacing following a trip through Weir Lane.

“He was just driving along it and bang, he needed all four wheels replaced," he said.

“He wasn’t aware of the potholes and was coming from the Mersea Road end so was doing nearly 40mph before hitting them.”

Essex Highways bosses have now replied.

A spokesman said: “In order to maximise our resources, we have to fix the most urgent issues first, however, all defects reported to us are assessed by an inspector.

“We therefore encourage members of the public to report any defects or issues they find through our online Tell Us tool at essexhighways.org/tell-us.

“Information about our repair criteria and maintenance strategy can also be found at: essexhighways.org/how-we-prioritise-highway-issues.

“Concerns about speed limits on the roads can be raised by the local Essex County Councillor for action as appropriate at the relevant local highways panel.”