Ten-mile tailbacks today marked the start of three weeks of roadworks on the A12.

Drivers faced early-morning chaos after roadworks began on the A12 Witham bypass.

Motorists were delayed as tailbacks up to ten miles long developed on the London-bound track. Workmen had closed one lane of the route to carry out repairs to the Maldon Road bridge.

At one stage the delays were so bad traffic police were advising drivers to find an alternative route to work or leave two hours before they have to get to work.

Acting Sgt Graham Lumley of Stanway traffic police said the situation could only get worse.

He said: "This will be going on for three weeks and I strongly advise people to find alternative routes or leave two hours before they need to."

Sgt Lumley warned that there would be congestion tonight coming in the opposite direction.

Drivers have been advised to stagger their journeys or take public transport, and London-bound commuters are advised to use the M11.

Speed cameras are being used to enforce a 40mph speed limit through the single line contraflow system which is in operation 24 hours a day.

The work is one of the final stages of a massive £2 million programme to reinforce six bridges on the A12 in Essex.

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