EXTRA reinforcements have been put in place to stop drivers flouting restrictions through roadworks.

Essex Highways and contractor Eurovia had to fully close a section of Ipswich Road until this Friday.

The road was closed one-way between Fenwick Drive and Ipswich Road roundabout however after drivers were ignoring the restriction and causing a safety risk the contractor closed the section completely.

Extra reinforcements have been put in place after drivers were ignoring the rules.

It came after passengers got out of a car and moved barriers and cones to try and get through the closure.

They then swore at a worker.

READ MORE: Ipswich Road to be closed for ANOTHER week due to problems

Water-filled barriers are being used, which are very heavy and usually moved only with heavy lifting equipment.

An Essex Highways spokesperson said: “Staff from Eurovia, the contractors, have observed and sometimes had to intervene with many instances of drivers dangerously and carelessly ignoring the “road closed” and “no through road” signs.

“This has sometimes involved head-on confrontations with vehicles coming the right way and then very awkward U-turns, causing delays."

Both sides of Harwich Road will be closed from Greenstead Road to the Harwich Road roundabouts from April 1 to April 22.

Works are being carried out between 7am and 8pm.

Anglian Water is excavating, laying pipes and make new connections.

BT and UK Power Networks cables will also be laid in Ipswich Road North this week.

Gas main ducting will be laid across St Andrews Avenue.