ESSEX Highways boss Rodney Bass told a disruptive resident to "shut up" after he launched a tirade against the controversial councillor.

Mr Bass was in Wivenhoe to officially open the new £1.9million cycle path, which connects the University of Essex and the town along Colchester Road.

But during yesterday morning's ceremony, a resident launched a tirade against the path's supporters, alleging the work has caused his home to flood and it has "ruined his life".

In a bid to calm the situation, Mr Bass is reported to have told the man to "shut up", before he was removed from the area.

A spectator at the opening said: "The man was shouting and basically letting everyone know his view on the path and what it had done to him.

"We were all wondering what was going to happen when Mr Bass very sternly said: 'Shut up,' and it worked.

"The man really caught everyone off-guard. He definitely isn't a fan of the £1.9million work."

An Essex County Council spokesman said: "A resident took the opportunity during the opening ceremony to share his views on the cycleway with everyone present, and was listened to before Cllr Bass moved the agenda on.

"He then spoke to senior officers at Essex County Council after the ceremony.

"We have been in discussions with the resident concerned throughout the building of the path and these discussions are continuing.”

Mr Bass added: "This cycle way project has proved to be difficult to construct and our staff have taken a lot of unfair criticism but I hope the investment will prove popular with the local community."

Julie Young, who has been part of the campaign for the track, said: "I'm delighted to have played my part and to see it finally open."

Essex University contributed £250,000 to the 900m long track, which can also be used by pedestrians.

Charlotte Humphries, University Transport Policy Coordinator, said: “I’m really pleased that such a long anticipated project is now completed and the path is now open."

The total cost includes a number of new additions, including new lighting, road widening and realignment and resurfacing, as well as a new Toucan crossing.