BUSINESSES that have already been badly affected by the A13 widening programme have been told by contractors Kier that disruption could go on until May.

The roadworks have been taking place for three years and after a number of delays to the project, Thurrock Council - which commissioned the work - projected a final completion date this month, December 2021.

However, that has slipped back, initially to January, and most recently councillors were told it would be February.

But at the weekend, frustrated businesses in the area, including catering outlets, once more chased Kier Construction and demanded to know when there would be an end to the disruption.

They were told by a representative of the company that while some sections of the project will be complete in early 2022, disruption around the Orsett Cock roundabout - which has been severe over weekends throughout the latter part of 2021, will go on until May.

Nub News has contacted Kier and Thurrock Council asked for an update and if what businesses have been told is correct.

A member of staff at Kier apologised to Nub News and said they could not comment as they have been instructed by Thurrock Council that it is the only organisation allowed to brief media.

However, Thurrock Council have instigated a policy that the council will no longer 'engage' with Thurrock Nub News. Effectively a ruling has been made within the council hierarchy that it will not respond to questions from Thurrock Nub News editor Neil Speight.

Thurrock Nub News is a legitimate news service that recognises the code of conduct and principles established by the Independent Press Standards Organisation, an organisation that Thurrock Council recognises as the standard bearer for journalism in the UK.

Mr Speight says: "Thurrock Nub News will continue to act as a residents' watchdog and hold Thurrock Council to account for its performances and we continue to be happy to provide a local, well subscribed platform through which the council is welcome to share information with residents. It is a shame the council chooses not to share important information on matters of legitimate public interest."

Daytime disruption at Orsett Cock and on the A13 has been minimalised this week and will be limited over the coming pre-Christmas weekend. During the week, from Monday to Thursday between 11pm and 5am the A13 eastbound is closed between the A128 Orsett Cock junction and the A1014 Stanford-le-Hope junction.

For two nights, Friday, 17 December and Saturday, 18 December from 10pm to 5am the whole of Orsett Cock roundabout and all its approach roads will be closed. The A13 main carriageway will remain open.

On Sunday night (19 December) from 10.30pm to 5am on Monday the A13 eastbound will be closed between the A128 Orsett Cock junction and A1014 Stanford-le-Hope junction.