HIGHWAYS bosses have raised concerns a bid for a drive-in cinema in Colchester will distract drivers using roads nearby.

Nightflix wants permission to use the former Sainsbury’s site in Stanway for its movie events.

The firm held a successful Winter Food and Film Wonderland event with a 60ft by 40ft giant screen back in December.

It has applied to Colchester Council to allow it to use the site for two years.

But Essex Highways has objected to the proposals.

It says the proposed screen would “likely to cause distraction to adjacent motorised highways users.”

The objection letter also raises concerns about safety on the site.

“The proposal would lead to intensification of use of the site without adequate turning or manoeuvring facilities for emergency vehicles throughout the site,” it said.

“The proposal would give rise to emergency vehicles reversing for unsafe distances.”

The letter says the proposed parking facilities fail to provide sufficient space between parking spaces

It added: “It is likely to lead to vehicles being left parked in the access routes causing conditions of danger, obstruction or congestion.”

Worries about pedestrian safety were also noted.

Colchester Council is set to rule on the plans for the drive-in cinema during April.

Applicants Nightflix are remaining tight-lipped on the details of other future events, however, the planning application submitted suggests Roman-themed events could be on the cards.

They said they hope to use the site through the summer, October and at Christmas.

For more visit nightflix.co.uk.