DRIVERS are being warned to brace themselves for traffic mayhem as roadworks are set to start on a busy route into Colchester.

From today, Essex Highways has scheduled drainage investigations in Ipswich Road, Harwich Road and St Andrew’s Avenue in Colchester.

The works are expected to take four days and temporary traffic lights will be in place between 8am and 4pm.

A spokesman for Essex Highways said: “During the works, which are needed to carry out some initial drainage surveys, some localised short term lane reductions will be necessary supported by temporary traffic lights.

“Where temporary footway/cycleway closures may be needed, alternative routes will be put in place.

“Please take additional care when passing through the area.”

Some of the inspections will be on the verges while others will be on the road.

Essex Highways said restrictions are “expected to be short term and temporary”.

Today’s works will focus on Cowdray Avenue and Ipswich Road roundabout, tomorrow’s works will be at St Andrew’s Avenue, Andrew’s Gardens and Harwich Road, Wednesday will focus on verges and footways in St Andrew’s Avenue, and any outstanding surveys will be finished on Thursday.

The works are ahead of the Essex Highways Ipswich Road improvement scheme.

The overall objective is to alleviate congestion and improve access for all modes of transport.

The scheme will see the replacement of the double roundabouts at Ipswich Road and Harwich Road with a single roundabout at each location.

The carriageway between Ipswich Road and Harwich Road junctions will also be widened to two lanes in each direction.

The main construction is hoped to be completed during the winter next year.

A12 roadworks taking place overnight are also causing some disruption.

Today, one lane will be closed on the A12 northbound, near the junction at community stadium, from 8pm until 6am tomorrow.

Three lanes will also be closed on the A12 northbound, near Eight Ash Green, during these hours.