AN URGENT inquiry into a junction has been called for after four crashes in a week.

Councillor Daniel Cowan, of St Laurence Ward, wants the probe into Eastwoodbury Lane, Westcliff, particularly the approach to the mini-roundabout at the junction with Snakes Lane and Whitehouse Road.

Braintree and Witham Times:

Urgent call - Daniel Cowan

Mr Cowan confirmed there had been four crashes on the road within the past week, with others taking place earlier this year.

He said: “I have made several requests for council officers to look into various aspects of the road, including whether the layout is suitable for the traffic. A lot of problems come from the approaches to the mini-roundabout, right outside the Len Forge Centre.

“I think a lot of people approach the roundabout on Eastwoodbury Lane and don’t think they need to slow down, which then leads to crashes.

“The accident on Monday was the fourth incident in the past week and I will be pressing for an urgent investigation. I raised detailed concerns about this road, especially the mini roundabout, a while back and hope sensible action can be taken to avoid more incidents.”

He said he found the signage leading up to the junction “appropriate”.

But added: “What we don’t do as a council is cover the accidents that don’t happen. There’s nothing in place to monitor the near misses that often happen, and I think as a council it is our responsibility to prevent accidents as well as respond to them.”

Ron Woodley, cabinet member for transport at Southend Council, said: “I have not been approached by anyone with concerns for this junction, but if ward members report the concerns to officers, it will eventually reach me and steps can be taken.”