Canvey has been dealt a major blow after plans for an east-west link road to ease congestion were put on ice by the Government.

Proposals for the extension of Roscommon Way to Thorney Bay Road have been ousted from the second round of the Government's cash handouts for local transport plans.

Hadleigh Tory county councillor Ron Williams, cabinet member in charge of transport, said he was "disappointed".

"The Government wants more evidence about our claims that the extension will mean regeneration on Canvey.

"It is terribly difficult to say what new businesses would be attracted by the new road as it is really another access road off Canvey which will ensure the regeneration of the area."

The proposed Roscommon Way extension was also aimed at increasing road safety in Long Road.

Published Monday December 17, 2001