Colchester City Council and Essex County Council, as the highways authority, acknowledge the frustration and disruption caused by the recent increase in traffic congestion across Colchester – particularly during peak hours.
Both authorities are sorry for the difficulties and delays faced by residents, businesses, and commuters this week, as the city has experienced an unusual concentration of planned utility and infrastructure improvements alongside urgent utility repairs.
These issues have been compounded by several emergency incidents on the A12, which have led to traffic diverting through Colchester, resulting in a greater impact on the network than the works alone would have caused.
A combination of critical infrastructure improvements is currently being carried out in the city. These include gas utility works, essential for safety and continuation of service to residents and businesses, and the development of the Rapid Transport System – to ensure that vital infrastructure, including roads and utilities, can support future growth of the area.
However, both councils fully recognise the cumulative impact they are having on day-to-day life and are committed to working together with utility companies on how to improve communications about utility improvements and reduce any unintended disruption, now and in the future.
Cllr David King, Leader of Colchester City Council, said: “We hear the concerns of our residents loud and clear. We know how frustrating the recent congestion has been. While some of the works are essential for public safety and long-term improvements, they need to be better planned, timed, and delivered. The city council will work with Essex County Council and all relevant partners to help make smarter decisions, to better inform the public, and minimise disruption wherever possible. Highways are not our responsibility, but standing back will not help anyone. Working together, sharing local knowledge and seeking better planning is the right thing to do.”
Cllr Tom Cunningham, Cabinet Member for Highways at Essex County Council, added: “We understand the pressure these works and incidents have put on Colchester’s road network, which is already close to capacity. While safety and maintenance must remain a priority, we are working closely with the City Council, utility companies, the police, and National Highways to manage incidents like these as best we can.”
We are also exploring with utility companies improved ways to communicate with the public, providing clearer and more timely information about incidents on the network, alternative routes, and expected traffic levels – empowering residents and businesses to plan ahead.
We thank everyone for their patience and continued understanding.
Page last reviewed: 25 April 2025