NATIONAL Highways has thanked motorists for their patience as the multi-million-pound resurfacing of a major road nears completion.

All temporary traffic barriers, cones, and speed limit reductions on the A12 between Junction 25 Marks Tey and Junction 26 Stanway have now been removed.

The major A12 reconstruction work is finished and all lanes are now back to operating at the national speed limit.

However, National Highways says there are some final bits of work to be done.

Starting on October 17, 2022, the roadworks have made motorists' lives "hell" for almost two years.

Busy - the A12Busy - the A12 (Image: Newsquest) Its aim has been to improve the safety of the A12 between Junction 25 at Marks Tey and Junction 26 at Stanway, while creating a smoother quieter surface, and extending the life of the road.

There have been multiple late-night closures and delays due to the roadworks.

Most recently it was meant to finish in September but was then pushed back to mid-October.

A National Highways spokesman said: “We would like to thank drivers for their patience following a significant period of speed restrictions during these works to upgrade this section of the A12.

“The road is now back in operation at the national speed limit, and we would like to remind motorists to drive carefully and allow themselves and others time to readjust.

“The removal of the old concrete surface and the upgrade to a smoother and quieter asphalt finish has now been completed with temporary barriers and cones removed.

“However, some remedial work is still necessary.

"Following completion of Wednesday’s work, further overnight lane closures for final checks, including removal of cameras and equipment, will take place in the coming weeks.

“All closures are subject to weather and progress."

National Highways says it has recycled 48,000 tonnes of old concrete road during this project which it says is enough to cover the runway at Stansted Airport nearly five times over

It also says 60,000 tonnes of asphalt has been laid, 66,000 tonnes of soil has been removed, and 26,000 metres of new white lines have been applied.