ANGRY residents say noisy and disruptive roadworks are making them feel “under siege” in their own homes.

Pelican cRossing and drainage works, on the A120, at Bradwell, have been taking place since August, often until the early hours of the morning.

Colin Rossini, of Coggeshall Road, said his driveway had been blocked five times since the work began.

He complained about workers’ “profane” speech, and lights which have been shining through residents’ windows.

Mr Rossini said: “We are under siege. We have been kept awake, as work has been going on until about 2am. We have had nothing but endless noise. Everyone is up in arms.”

He added he was concerned about emergency vehicle access, and elderly and disabled neighbours, who were struggling to cross the road.

Ashley Winsbury-Cutts, landlord of the Swan pub, on the A20, across the road from Coggeshall Road, said some of his diners could have been killed because of confusion over the roadworks. He is concerned it is affecting his business.

Mr Winsbury-Cutts said: “They had come here for a meal and the roadworks weren’t there.

“When they came back out, there were roadworks one side and traffic the other side. As they pulled out, there was a lorry coming towards them. Business is hard enough as it is, without all this.

“I have heard them working past midnight some nights. The lights are like the Blackpool Illuminations over there.”

A Highways Agency spokesperson said: “Local residents have requested the agency improve pedestrian access across the A120, in Coggeshall Road, near the junction with The Street.

“The crossing we are installing will improve access for the residents and improve safety for all road users.

“The agency regrets any inconvenience caused to residents.

“Some residents have raised concerns about noise resulting from the work. Where possible, the agency carries out roadworks overnight in order to minimise disruption to road users.

“However, following concerns raised by residents, we have instructed our contractors to carry out the noisiest activities before 11pm, wherever possible.”