PART of a busy road linking Kelvedon and Tiptree could be closed until the start of next month after some drivers ignored a weight limit.

Strengthening work at Hinds Bridge, in Inworth Road, began at the end of July and initially the bridge was only closed to vehicles weighing more than three tonnes.

But now officials have been forced to close it to all vehicles after reports of some drivers in heavy vehicles ignoring the weight restriction.

Essex Highways say the closure is likely to be in place for up to 21 days with an estimated completion date of September 3.

The road connects Kelvedon to the northwest with Tiptree to the southeast and is the main route for motorists heading from Kelvedon to Perrywood Garden Centre and onto Tiptree.

A spokesman for Essex Highways said: "Several drivers have ignored the temporary weight limit on Hinds Bridge which carries the B1023 Inworth Road/Kelvedon Road between Kelvedon and Tiptree.

"This has led Essex Highways to fully close the bridge due to safety concerns.

"The three-tonnes weight limit, with traffic lights, was imposed to allow engineers to work safely underneath the bridge to strengthen it and the full closure has been put into effect immediately to enable this work to continue.

"The road is closed from now, August 14 and is required full time, 24 hours a day until the works are complete. It applies to all vehicles.

"Drivers are asked to follow the signed diversion."