A new DIY superstore on land south of Millennium Way would cause unacceptable traffic problems, according to Essex County Council’s Highways Authority.

A planning application, originally for a new 55,000 square foot B&Q, was submitted to Braintree Council in December 2013.

The Highways Authority said modelling showed there would be “significant increases in queue lengths and delays” in the area around Galleys Corner roundabout and on country roads.

The developers had proposed widening the roundabout and the road near the Fowlers Farm roundabout.

The authority said it would reconsider its findings if new solutions were proposed.

B&Q pulled out of the plans in January when a second proposal for a new store was submitted by the owners of Braintree Freeport for land north of the shopping centre.

Developers Braintree Properties LLP said they would continue with the application.