A NEW diversion on a busy Colchester road where a bus lane is being created is set to cause a headache for drivers. 

Work is ongoing in Northern Approach in Colchester to create a new rapid transit bus lane, along with new walking and cycling infrastructure.

Now, this work, which has been going on for more than a year, is set to enter the next phase.

Work is due to start on the traffic island which will separate the new infrastructure from the existing main road.

To enable these works, a full overnight road closure will be in place from 8pm on Tuesday, September 24, to 6am on Wednesday, September 25.

Venessa Moffat, councillor for Mile End ward, said: "As a resident, living very close to the RTS works, it's good to see some tarmac being laid, and a light at the end of the tunnel.   

"I'm looking forward to when we have traffic lights to get out of Wallace Road, and this closure is part of getting to that.  The communication has been good from Sisk - this is a pretty major piece of work."

Fellow councillor Martin Goss added: "There is a massive diversion in place so this going to be horrendous for people.

"I just want this project over because it's overbudget and overtime and it just needs to finish as soon as possible.

"It is causing Colchester residents massive headache and massive stress and I just want it to end."

Essex Highways says the new phase of works is an “important step in allowing for the separating island to be built”.

This will allow for changes to the traffic management setup.

On re-opening on Wednesday, the new temporary layout will mean traffic is unable to turn right into or out of Wallace Road and Dickenson Road.

Access for southbound traffic into the estate will need to be made via the roundabout at the southern part of Northern Approach Road.

Vehicles heading to Colchester city centre from the estate will be diverted to the roundabout between Nayland Road and Boxted Road. Here they can then head back down North Approach.

This arrangement will be in place for approximately eight weeks.

An Essex County Council spokesman added: “We appreciate any works can be disruptive and thank residents for their ongoing patience while these works enter this new phase.

“During the closure, marshalls will be on hand to ensure access is maintained for those living off Northern Approach.”

To find out more about the scheme, visit www.essexhighways.org/colchester-rapid-transit.