Major resurfacing scheme begins across Essex

The investment programme was dubbed "Priority One" by Essex County Council

A £25m resurfacing scheme has got under way in a bid to dramatically improve a county's road network.

Work on 21 projects had started across Chelmsford, Colchester, Braintree and Maldon since the plan was announced in August, Essex County Council said.

Highways teams also planned to use the funding to repair signs, trim overgrown vegetation and unblock drains.

The local authority said it was the largest investment it had ever made into the county's roads.

The investment programme was dubbed "Priority One" by highways chiefs to reflect the significance they believed it held.

Resurfacing schemes have also either been started or planned in Rochford, Castle Point, Harlow, Epping Forest and across the Tendring district.

The latest funding came after a £12m investment was announced for roads in February by County Hall

"We understand the importance of feeling proud about the places we live," said Mark Platt, the council's deputy cabinet member for highways, infrastructure and sustainable transport.

"We have made a fantastic start with additional resurfacing works taking place across the county."

Mr Platt said overnight work on "two key roads" in Chelmsford and Rochford would continue this week.

"Over the coming weeks and months, we will be announcing further works, with teams out in every borough, district and city area," he added.

The latest funding came after a £12m investment was announced for roads in February.

Of that money, £8m would be spent on issues raised by individual councillors, the authority said.