A DANGEROUS road in Witham is finally being looked at for improvements, to the relief of councillors and residents.

Hatfield Road has been called a danger as it is narrow and people are at risk of being knocked by wing mirrors of oncoming cars.

In a letter to Witham Town Councillor, resident Mr Tompsett said: "Part of Hatfield Road near the Maltings Lane junction is narrow as is the single file footpath, making pedestrians very vulnerable to being hit by overhanging wing mirrors of large vehicles.

"The cross hatchings in the centre of the road encourage drivers to drive very close to the footpath, and there is vegetation growing into Hatfield Road from the 'My Local' shop garden which is another additional hazard that needs investigating.

"The speed of the traffic and the closeness to pedestrians is dangerous, and there is no protective barrier for people on this footpath."

Witham councillor Angela Kilmartin has been in contact with Essex County Council to make sure safety measures are put in place.

The County Council has now said the road is going through a validation process, which assesses whether any work can be done.

She said: "It all takes so very long because it's not like Witham is a small place any more. It's good news the council is following procedure and now it's up to individuals to know the area and cross the road with extreme caution.

"When I first came here I already reported that this was the most dangerous place, but I'm happy there's a validation process going on.

"When all the new houses are built the whole road will be in the pipeline to be seen to properly. If it wasn't being dealt with I would be out there with a placard."

County Councillor Derrick Louis has been looking into what improvements can be made to the road.

A spokesperson for Essex Highways said: “The current pedestrian island, close to Augustus Way, only allows a maximum of two people to safely cross together, and our aim is to improve that to enable children and parents to cross more safely.

“Our Rangers service has been alerted to deal with the issue of vegetation overhanging the pavement. If residents have other suggestions on highways improvements these should be made to their local county councillor to put forward to the Local Highways Panel.”