SIX months of “significant” roadworks are set to be carried out in Rochford to widen a major road – sparking concerns over chaos on the roads.

As part of Bloor Homes’ 662-home development off Ashingdon Road, the road will be widened to create a new access route to the homes.

Now, residents have received letters stating work, outside Holt Farm Junior School, will begin on January 2 and last roughly six months until July next year.

The works include the widening of the road where the site access is, removing and replacing a pedestrian crossing, railings and resurfacing the footpaths.

Simon Wootton, councillor responsible for Roche North and Rural, fears the work will create huge disruption for residents who strongly opposed the development originally.

He said: “Ultimately, it is for the developer to have agreed the road layout and the construction arrangements through Essex County Council as the statutory Highways Authority.

“However, as ward councillor it does concern me hugely, as it will mean very lengthy disruption to residents in the district, who will be highly inconvenienced through what is a key travel route within Rochford.

“It is something that has been going on for the last several years, and I along with my colleagues have been very vocal and opposed to the planned layout of junction, especially so close to several schools.

“However, the Planning Inspectorate and Essex Highways say it is safe, despite our continued objections, and have ruled accordingly.

“We have always been against this and that doesn’t change, and we are extremely concerned about long-term disruption over many months and the inconvenience. It will cause a host of issues.”

During the work, just one lane on the road will be in use and temporary traffic lights put in place 24 hours a day.

There will also be a week of night-time full road closures to resurface the road.

A spokesman for Bloor Homes said: “In collaboration with Essex County Council and Rochford Council, we are to commence road improvement and widening works to Ashingdon Road in January 2024.

“It is anticipated that these works will take six months to complete.

“The works are part of the overall planning approval, including the provision of a new right turn lane into the site.”