ROADWORKS taking place during a rubbish collection will cause havoc for residents, councillors have said.

Essex Highways plans to resurface Chalks Road in Witham between 9am and 6pm on August 11 and 12.

Essex County Council said access will not be possible for very long periods of work in and out of St Nicholas Road, Templars Close and Chalks Road.

Witham councillors fear it will cause traffic problems for residents, and they could be 'trapped' for two days.

John Goodman said: "The problem is its going to be totally closed all day and residents who have parking permits without driveways will have nowhere to put their cars, it also blocks off access to other roads.

"We understand the road needs resurfacing but they haven't got enough contingency plans for residents.

"The first day is refuse and recycling day and the carts will not be able to get down there."

Chalks Road will be closed from its junction with Church Street to its junction with B1018 Braintree Road, whilst Church Street will be closed from its junction with Chalks Road to its junction with Chipping Hill.

Councillors wanted another letter to be sent to residents warning them to move their cars elsewhere.

Phil Barlow, a councillor who lives in Chalks Road, said: "There will be a huge number of irate people and I'm very disappointed the letter from the council still hasn't arrived.

"I was assured the rubbish collection will start at 9am but I'm still a little sceptical about them delivering what they have said."

A spokesperson for Essex Highways said: "A leaflet will be delivered to residents giving them all the advice they need in advance of the upcoming roadworks.

"Residents are asked to park in a safe place away from the area where the work is taking place.

"Practical arrangements will be made locally to ensure refuse collections take place, residents are advised to put their rubbish out as normal.”