HIGHWAYS bosses have thanked drivers for their patience after a fuel spill led to traffic chaos across Colchester.

Clingoe Hill was closed on Wednesday afternoon after the incident between Wivenhoe and Elmstead Market.

It was further along from the roadworks for the new bus lane.

A spokesman for Essex Highways said: “We understand the fuel spill on the A133, which required a closure of the carriageway, made people’s journeys through Colchester difficult.

"We understand the frustration when an unforeseen incident adds pressure to the road network.

“In any circumstance, an incident on a major road such as this will unfortunately cause disruption, and we thank drivers for their patience.

“The works in place to create the Rapid Transit System (RTS), which are further along Clingoe Hill, are being carefully managed to ensure disruption is kept to a minimum.

"The contraflow system is handling normal traffic levels well and being constantly monitored to ensure it is as effective as possible.

“Once complete, the new RTS lane will form part of a system across the city offering a much-improved public transport service and providing alternatives to driving into Colchester.”