Rochford Road northbound closure ahead of The Bell junction work

January 11, 2020 by Leigh-on-sea.com

Access onto Rochford Road northbound from The Bell junction will be prohibited for 12 weeks as diversionary gas works are undertaken as part of The Bell junction improvement works. 

From Monday 13 January up until Friday 3 April, vehicles will be unable to access Rochford Road from The Bell junction. This is due to excavation works that are being undertaken on the carriageway by Cadent Gas to divert their gas main.

This means the A127 westbound (London bound) right hand turn onto Rochford Road, the A127 eastbound (Southend bound) left hand turn onto Rochford Road, and access onto Rochford Road from Hobleythick Lane will all be prohibited. Diversions will be clearly signposted.

UK Power Networks will also be carrying out work at the same time to divert their cables, and will work collaboratively with Cadent and within the agreed traffic management that will be in place.

Cllr Ron Woodley, cabinet member for transport, capital and inward investment, said: “The preliminary works for the Bell junction improvement works are underway, and the next phase is set to begin next week. We have learned lessons from previous improvement works and as such, we are ensuring all gas pipes and wiring has been moved appropriately, prior to the main work beginning.

“Whilst I appreciate this closure isn’t ideal for local residents and motorists, I must reiterate the importance of getting this work done as early as possible to avoid any potential issues later on in the project. We of course, apologise in advance for any inconvenience this may cause, with the diversions clearly signposted throughout the duration of the works.”

For more information regarding The Bell works, please visit www.southend.gov.uk/thebell.