ROAD chiefs have urged motorists to “stick to the approved route” after residents complained about traffic congestion.

National Highways’ A12 improvement works have seen the Colchester-bound junction at Marks Tey closed to drivers travelling from the A120.

It has seen cars instead being driven down adjacent London Road as an alternative route into Colchester and beyond.

A National Highways spokesman said the issue is being worsened due to motorists not following an approved diversion.

Gazette: Traffic - a queue in London RoadTraffic - a queue in London Road (Image: Lizzy Steward)

He said: "We appreciate that living near roadworks is not easy and we are grateful for people's patience while we deliver these vital improvements to the A12 between Marks Tey and Stanway.

“We'd urge all motorists to stick to the approved signposted diversion route that is in place on the A12 while the junction 25 entry slip road is closed.

"We will continue to listen to feedback from customers, stakeholder and our own teams to find further improvements to how we manage traffic.”

It follows Copford resident Lizzy Steward claiming the village’s roads have turned into “central London” as they battle an influx of traffic.

The mum-of-two added a five minute school run is taking 50 minutes to drive.