THE A12 and A120 roads will struggle to cope with demand if they are not upgraded, according to a new report.
 

The Highways Agency has revealed a new strategy for the A12 between the M25 and Ipswich and the A120 to Harwich.
 

The strategy is one of the first to be announced for the UK, because of the “known issues” which already exist.
 

But it does not identify what improvements will be made.
 

The report states: “The A12/A120 is an ageing route which has several maintenance issues.
 

“It will be functioning above capacity by 2021 and will clearly struggle to keep up with demand.”
 

The report highlights the increased housing in Colchester and Chelmsford as well as the expansion of Harwich port as particular issues.
 

The Highways Agency will now work with councils and other partners on coming up with solutions to the problems with a plan expected by 2015.

A second "route-based strategy" is being prepared for the A120 from Braintree to Marks Tey.

Find out more in tomorrow's Daily Gazette.