AN already congested road in Halstead is expected to be over capacity by 2033.

Ringway Jacobs carried out assessments on main roads in Braintree district to see how traffic flows will change over time.

They said in a report increased traffic in Head Street, Halstead, caused by house building will further exacerbate any congestion.

Essex County Council said it would focus on improving public transport as well as cycling and walking routes, to keep as many cars off the road as possible.

The report said: “There will be a significant need to encourage modal shift measures such as improving public transport and cycling, which are being considered by the A131 Braintree to Sudbury Route Based Strategy and Braintree Cycling Action Plan in order to accommodate the effects of the proposed development.

“There has previously been a suggestion that a Halstead Bypass is required.”

The bypass has been safeguarded from any housing development as Essex County Council has seen it as a priority.

The report said: “Whilst the scheme has not come forward in the intervening time, it remains a priority for the council and it is likely that growth on the corridor from North Chelmsford, Braintree and at Sudbury will re- sult in a need to commence development work on the scheme during the plan period.”

The report was read by Braintree Council at the latest Local Plan committee meeting.