RESIDENTS have claimed a road in Basildon is so full of potholes there should be a diversion put in place.

Srinivasan Vaidyanadeswaran, a Basildon resident, has claimed Whitmore Way is so “appalling”, that it is now just a pothole with “some strand of road on it”.

Basildon has been the victim of some of the worst potholes in Essex over the years according to residents and councillors.

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However, Dr Srinivasan has said he has never seen a road like Whitmore Way.

He added: “If you think that it is well-nigh impossible to drive at zero miles per hour, please have a rethink and take a drive on Whitmore Way in Basildon.

“This is a road that would make you wonder if it is a road with potholes or potholes with some strand of road on it.

“These are probably the worst potholes to drive in, in the area.

“I have lived in Basildon for years, and I have never seen a road in such an appalling state before.

“I wish the authorities are honest enough to put a notice “too bad to drive and take diversion” if they cannot fix this imminently.

“It is appalling and hurtful and a very bad advert for Essex as a whole.”

Back in February, Essex County Council announced the budget for 2023-2024 which saw an extra £9million allocated for road repair and maintenance.

Dr Srinivasan added: “Even when potholes get repaired, they seem to not stay intact for long and the troubles continue.

“It is frustrating and stressful for drivers as damage to a car can be serious, and there is a chance of accidents as people veer to avoid potholes.

“It is a bad reflection on the county.”

David Kirkman, Labour councillor responsible for Fryerns ward, added: “I totally agree.

"It is something I am passionate about getting fixed as it has got to the point that it is ridiculous.

“I have called upon relevant highways to get out there and sort it.”