Police today made an urgent plea for motorists to stop putting lives at risk by causing gridlock in Colchester.

Traffic officers have criticised drivers for adding to the roadworks misery near Colchester North Station.

Frustrated drivers have been stuck for up to 90 minutes in the jams caused by the roadworks at Turner Road and Mill Road for the Northern Approaches.

Police say selfish motorists are to blame.

And they warn they are putting lives at risk because ambulances are being delayed when going to and from Colchester General Hospital.

Acting Sgt John Simpson, of Stanway traffic police, said:

"In their desperation to get round and on to where they are going, motorists are blocking the white painted areas, not adhering to the keep clear signs.

"These are only meant for cars coming out from another exit and this means everyone is boxed in."

Published Friday October 18, 2002

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