THREE months of roadworks on a major Benfleet road branded a "huge pain" to motorists are finally set to come to an end.

The works on Bread and Cheese Hill, on the A13, are part of a major project to replace 1930s-era gas mains under the road to make them more resilient and prevent leaks.

Initially, the work was set to be completed in time for the start of school in September, but it has been pushed back repeatedly.

However, according to Essex County Council councillor for Benfleet, Andrew Sheldon, the works are finally set to be completed this week, with the lights due to be lifted on Thursday morning.

Mr Sheldon said: "Cadent have told me that the engineering works are finally complete and the road surface will be relayed today.

"It means that all traffic restrictions and temporary traffic lights should be lifted on Thursday morning.

"I am very pleased these overrunning works are close to being off the London Road, but I won't quite believe it until I see it.

"These works were necessary but have been a huge pain for local motorists."

Mr Sheldon also stressed the need that the maximum fine for overrunning roadworks should be increased.

He added: "This case highlights more than any other in Castle Point the need for the Government to increase the maximum fine for overrunning roadworks that the local council's can levy.

"The last Government started the process but the new Government needs to see it through."

The works sparked a number of issues, including problems with the temporary lights, which saw drivers forced to attempt to navigate the road by mounting the pavement to avoid crashes.

The faulty temporary traffic lights were later blamed on a resident tampering with them.

Cadent has been contacted for comment by the Echo, but are yet to respond.