Rochford road works extended amid ‘complication’ and traffic chaos

A week-long road closure in Rochford is set be extended as repairs to a collapsed sewage pipe have been hit with further “complications”, following the discovery of a telecommunications cable running through it.

Since the closure of Sutton Road, in Rochford, began last week, motorists have complained of severe delays and queues getting in and out of Southend.

However, Anglian Waters contractors have revealed an extension is needed to deal with a telecoms pipe discovered four metres below ground level.

Repairs - Anglian Water started work to replace a collapsed pipe at Sutton Road last week. (Image: Ben Shahrabi)

Amid the chaos seen during morning rush hours, Mr Steptoe says the closure will continue to negatively impact traffic.

He said: “Rochford only has four roads in and out, so 25 per cent of that access is now closed.

“The guys on-site are very keen and anxious to get it done with minimal disruption for residents.

“It will have a big effect on businesses at Purdey’s Industrial Estate and along Sutton Road. It’s bound to have a long-term effect on places like Scott’s of Southend garden centre and the Factory Shop. Easter is one of their busy trading periods.

“This is a little bit more complicated than just digging a hole and replacing the pipe.”

However, Mr Steptoe reiterated that the urgent works were necessary for the wellbeing of residents.

Up close - a telecommunications cable was found to be running alongside an underground sewage pipe, delaying works. (Image: Submitted)

He added: “The sewage was emanating into people’s gardens. This is going to be a big improvement, no matter what. It’s one of those things that’s happened and there’s nothing you can do but fix it.

“I’m keeping a close eye to ensure residents can get access to their properties. They have been provided with alternative parking nearby. I would like to apologise to residents for any inconvenience. The team and our back-room staff are doing everything they can to get it resolved.”

In an email sent to Mr Steptoe by Anglian Water, a spokesman said: “We have dug down on the collapsed four-metre stretch as per our survey and found the pipe to be collapsed.

"This looks to have been forced over by a large telecoms pipe, which looks to have drilled through at close to four metres deep. Due to the need for a second excavation, we will require the road notice to be extended past our original date. We have applied for this.”