Concerns over traffic congestion on the east side of Colchester have been passed on to Colchester Council.

In an effort to ease rush-hour jams on Clingoe Hill, a group of Conservative councillors and party supporters have asked the borough council to carry out a survey of drivers who use the road to find out where their travel patterns.

They also want a complete review of the pedestrian crossings at the Greenstead roundabout and an "integrated transport policy" to improve traffic flow throughout the town.

The requests were drawn up at a meeting chaired by David Adams, deputy chairman of the north-east Conservative Association, borough councillors Christopher Garnett and Christopher Arnold, Tendring councillor Bryan Johnston and Wivenhoe town councillor Peter Hill.

Mr Adams said: "It seems to me that this first stage of the eastern approaches relief road has not really improved things."

He claims the use of pelican crossings at roundabouts does little to ease congestion and believes zebra crossings would be more suitable.

Mr Adams added: "I would not want to make things unsafe, but it seems to me we are trying to get traffic flowing but are putting obstructions in its way."

A survey conducted by car manufacturers Daewoo has revealed Colchester motorists suffer from high levels of stress and anxiety.

"Tail-gating" by other drivers was felt to be the biggest cause of near-misses and road rage, and 65 per cent of respondents said they would feel more secure if they drove a bigger vehicle.

More women drivers then men felt vulnerable on the road and 54 per cent said they felt "at risk" due to the behaviour of other motorists.

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