WORK costing quarter of a million pounds will soon be starting to introduce traffic calming measures on a busy Stanford-le-Hope road.

Local councillors in the Homseteads ward have welcomed the news after Thurrock Council gained approval to implement the work, using money from the Covid Tranche 2 funding from the government's sustainable transport scheme.

As well as slowing traffic the scheme will include cycling safety measures.

Now it just needs the council's cabinet to rubber-stamp the scheme which will be developed fully after consultation with residents.

Speaking on behalf of himself and his Conservative colleague Cllr Gary Collins, Cllr James Halden said he welcomed the news and added: "If you have any thoughts or ideas about the road scheme you wish to share with us, please feel free to email me at [email protected].

Independent councillor Gary Byrne was also upbeat about the news today (Monday, 1 February) and said: "This is my proudest moment as a Homesteads councillor.

"Two years ago I stood for election with a promise to stop the Branksome rat run and make this Homesteads road safer and quieter for our residents.

"Many thanks to cycling campaigner Matt Hill who believed and was on side from day one and an extra special thank you to Cllr Halden. He has been with me all the way on this two year journey."

Cllr Collins said: "Speed reduction on Southend Road has been very successful, but other areas of the ward, like Branksome Avenue, needed and deserved some real investment.

"I am thrilled we have won a sizable pot of cash, and I look forward to working with local people to deliver real improvements here."

Cllr Halden added "As local councillors, we are pleased Conservative colleagues leading the transport team have supported our residents on Branksome Avenue.

"I will be voting to approve this cash when Cabinet meets next week.

"I am personally grateful for the support of the highways officers, my colleague Cllr Byrne, and all the residents who have spoken to us about the need to get some action taken here."