Northern Approach sees barrier chaos after stormy weekend

There have been barriers along Northern Approach Road for months as Essex Highways continues work on a new rapid transit bus lane, along with walking and cycling infrastructure. 

The work, which has been running for more than a year, entered a new phase in September and is scheduled for completion on November 30. 

Over the weekend, when storm Bert led to chaos, barriers at the site were blown over, leaving residents concerned. 

Safety - Residents were worried about safety and accessibility (Image: Kharaun Campbell)

Kharaun Campbell, 46, wanted to get groceries on Sunday with his child, but abandoned the joint activity after seeing that the route was inaccessible. 

He said: “It has been a massive problem for residents since the roadworks started. 

“My biggest issue was that going from Turner Road to Mill Road, the pavement was inaccessible for people with mobility issues or prams. 

Worried - Kharaun Campbell, 46, was worried (Image: Kharaun Campbell)

“I wanted to make people aware that there were issues getting to the nursery and to the surgery down the road. It was multiple issues waiting to happen. 

“My main concerns were the safety of parents with small children and people who have mobility issues.” 

Mile End councillor David King urged the highways authority to resolve the issue as soon as possible. 

Chaos - The barriers have been a huge issue for residents since the beginning of the roadworks (Image: Kharaun Campbell)

He said: “A lot of people are frustrated and impatient to see the end of these overrunning works. 

“Bad weather is a challenge for anyone but we expect Essex Highways to resolve the issues for residents and the travelling public. 

“They need to get the works finished by Christmas, however, that seems unlikely.” 

Essex Highways said XX