Plans for a new road on Canvey which could hold the key to another route off the island are to go on display this week for public approval.

The traffic-busting proposals for a link from Roscommon Way to Thorney Bay Road would see lorries diverted around the island and congestion eased on Long Road.

Essex County Council will set up a mobile display next to Safeway at Northwick Road on Thursday, Friday and Saturday -- and are hoping as many islanders as possible will have their say.

The overall cost would vary depending on the route chosen, but it is thought the most expensive route could be as much as £8 to 9 million.

Those going along can also offer their views on connecting the new road with Charfleets Industrial Estate.

Borough councillors have had a preview of the scheme and were able to offer their initial responses to the county's highways department.

Labour councillor Brian Weller said: "It was a worthwhile meeting and councillors asked a lot of deep-rooted questions.

"The cost is one of the main things and it varies depending on which options you look at. The bottom line is we want to get this road to help divert

heavy traffic and help our infrastructure. This will then help us progress to getting another route off the island."

Conservative councillor Ray Howard, county spokesman on highways matters, said: "There is concern expressed about the high cost of the route but it is part of the rolling program to improve the infrastructure on Canvey.

"This will be put to the maximum of consultation and that will all be collated and brought to a future highways and transportation committee."

The exhibition will be open from noon to 6pm on Thursday, 10am to 9pm on Friday and 10am to 4pm on Saturday.

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