Brightlingsea’s county councillor has apologised for “shocking” delays to drivers caused by traffic-light controlled roadworks on the B1029 near Thorrington Cross this week.

The works – by UK Power Networks connecting services to a new property – caused delays of up to 45 minutes, with queues sometimes stretching back past the Colne School in one direction and the level crossing gates at Thorrington in the other. Buses were severely delayed.

Following an on-site meeting with workers on Wednesday, February 11, Alan Goggin said there had been a “big mistake regarding start and finish times.”

Subsequently, the licence for the work – which was expected to be completed by Friday, February 13, was changed to prevent the traffic lights operating before 9.30am and after 3.30pm. “That is not great or perfect but it is designed to avoid todays chaos,” said Cllr Goggin. “Sorry for anyone who missed an appointment or connections.”