A LAST gasp technical hitch has caused a delay in full completion of roadworks at a junction that have frustrated motorists for a number of weeks.

Work to improve the junction of Devonshire Road, London Road and Gumley Road in west Thurrock, which include creating new pedestrian crossings have overrun considerably, prompting an apology from Thurrock Council.

It looked like works would be completed today (Wednesday, 28 May) but a technical issue has foiled that hope.

Work started on modifying the junction in mid March and was supposed to end on 2 May but the deadline was extended.

In frustration a resident and motorist raised the issue with Thurrock Nub News, saying he was frustrated with a lack of response from the council, adding: "They extended it to May 16th. Since then they've extended it twice, firstly to May 23rd and now again until May 28th.

"If they were actually doing anything it wouldn't be so bad , but I pass this multiple times a day and the last time I saw anyone working there was on 9 May.

"The work seems to be completed but the temporary traffic lights remain and means long delays at peak times, this then causes buses to go on diversion between Grays and Lakeside via Hogg Lane.

"Considering the fact the council moans about utility companies overrunning their roadworks this smells of pot, kettle and black to me."

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Traffic at the junction was flowing this afternoon.

The complainant received words of sympathy from Cllr Victoria Holloway, cabinet member for Place and the Environment, who said: "We're sorry for the delay to these works and the inconvenience this has caused to local residents.

"I also want to apologise to the resident who contacted the council but didn't hear back – this is clearly unacceptable.

"The works are to introduce a Toucan crossing, which is a crossing that allows pedestrians and bikes to safely cross the road.

"Unfortunately, technical issues have delayed the completion of works, but I'm pleased to say we hope to complete them this week, including the removal of the temporary lights."

This afternoon it looked as of it would be 'problem solved' as all the signage was removed and traffic was flowing well.

However, late in the afternoon, a component in the new sensory management system failed.

An engineer on site said: "It was flowing well but there was a failure and I think we will have to be back tomorrow.

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"Traffic is still flowing, but it's on time management, not the sensor system."