AN ANGRY resident does not think new warning signs will deter drivers of heavy vehicles from using a country lane.

Jeff Attfield, 67, of Keswick Avenue, Hullbridge, was recently confronted by a huge lorry coming in the opposite direction down Watery Lane.

He was forced to stop and inch past it, but only thanks to a conveniently located driveway on his side of the road.

The number of large vehicles driving down the narrow lane, between Hullbridge and Battlesbridge, has increased since a three tonne weight restriction on Beeches Bridge was lifted in September.

However, the same restriction still applies on Hanover Bridge – but until last week there had been no warning signs at the entrance to the lane.

Mr Attfield said: “It was very frightening. The lorry took up virtually the whole road.

“Watery Lane was built before the motorcar and was designed for horses and carts, or pedestrians – the whole road should be condemned.

“I’m not sure the signs will make any difference. We’ve had them before and they haven’t worked.”

The weight limit was not enforceable on Hanover Bridge until the correct signs had been erected.

Since Beeches Bridge reopened, after strengthening work over the summer, residents have taken to a private Hullbridge page on Facebook and vented their anger.

Several posts complaining of overweight and oversized vehicles blocking the road have received around 40 comments supporting the original poster.

Echo:

Rochford District Councillors Michael and Diane Hoy have been waiting for Essex Highways to erect the signs

Michael Hoy, Rochford district councillor for Hullbridge, said: “It’s the usual thing with Essex Highways being slow to act.

“The heavy vehicles driving down such a narrow road are dangerous to other motorists.

“I have been contacted by lots of concerned residents about the number of overweight vehicles using the road as a cut-through, so hopefully the signs will do their job.”

The Echo asked Essex Highways why it had taken two months for the signs to be installed, but it failed to give an answer.

An Essex Highways spokesman said: “At present the sign will display a weight limit only. but we are also recommending a width restriction to the Local Highways Panel.”