Tory MP Sir Teddy Taylor stepped up his "top priority" bid today for an outer by-pass around Southend.

The campaigning MP revealed he was appealing directly to Government ministers to get the idea off the ground.

He plans to lobby Southend and Rochford councils about his concept to ensure "real progress"over the traffic problems blighting the seaside town.

In the past, Essex County Council has had plans for an outer Southend by-pass through the district of Rochford.

However, recent Government opposition to building new roads has stopped many proposed new road schemes in the country.

Sir Teddy said he had no plans for a definite route for a by-pass but he stressed the idea had to be reconsidered because it was vital for the regeneration of Shoebury.

The Rochford and Southend East MP said: "Of course, there are worries about this. Residents in Rochford are concerned such a road could lead to the merging of its community with Southend.

"But no such problems should occur so long as the greenbelt was stringently maintained. The provision of a by-pass linking Shoebury with the A127 with junctions at Wakering, Rochford, Thorpe Bay, Southend and Westcliff should and must be a top priority."

Sir Teddy also plans to lobby Conservative leader William Hague.

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