Essex receives funding for two ‘significant’ roads projects

Essex County Council has received nearly one and a half million to carry out two projects which will improve the county’s road network.

Announced by the DfT on 2 March, the funding is designed to help councils carry out ‘essential’ repairs to their local road networks, helping to cut congestion, improve road conditions and make journeys easier.

The only authority in the country to have two successful bids, Essex County Council will receive £380,000 to support the removal of the Army and Navy flyover in Chelmsford and £1m to invest in maintenance of Braintree town centre.

Cllr Kevin Bentley, Essex County Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for infrastructure, said: “I am pleased the Government has recognised the importance of investing in Essex by funding two significant projects across the county. 

“We are the only local authority in the country to be successful with two separate bids.

“The additional funding to cover the cost of current Army and Navy removal works will free up much needed funds which we can invest in establishing a long-term solution for this busy junction which sits at the heart of our county.

“Investment in Braintree town centre is also testament to the role of local high streets – the life blood of our communities – and how important it is that we continue to maintain them now and in the future so that they can thrive.”

10 March 2020