A CONSULTATION to install a vital roundabout looks to have moved a step closer after another crash at a notorious accident blackspot.

Two people were taken to Colchester General Hospital after a two-car smash at the Hare Green junction of the A120, near Great Bromley, on Tuesday.

After the accident, Harwich and North Essex MP Bernard Jenkin said he was in talks with the Highways Agency about the consultation on the roundabout taking place early next year.

He said: “It is a huge relief noone was seriously hurt, but it was another serious accident.

“I have emailed Minister for Transport John Hayes and asked him why there has been such a long delay.

“The Highways Agency is ready to fix a date for consultation on the roundabout, hopefully that will happen in January.

“It has all taken far too long – a roundabout is the only thing which will stop the accidents happening.”

There have been at least 17 serious accidents at the junction since 2011.

A 50mph limit is due to come into force between Hare Green, Pellens Corner and Horsley Cross on Monday, but the average speed cameras will not work until next year. Until then, the police will enforce the limit.

Tendring councillor Fred Nicholls was furious at the amount of time it has taken for a consultation to take place.

He said: “It is appalling the Highways Agency has not got its act together with this sooner. I was promised there would be discussions in the autumn.

“They come up with all manner of excuses, but the people deserve more than this.

“I am told the speed cameras will come into force in January but they will not stop the accidents, although theymay reduce the severity.

“In all probability a roundabout would stop them, as people coming from each direction would be forced to stop.”

A Highways Agency spokesman said: “Safety is a top priority for the Highways Agency and we are committed to improving safety on the A120.”