SERIOUS safety concerns have previously been raised about a road where a crash killed two people and left another in a life threatening condition.

The crash between a van and a car happened in Lower Dunton Road, between Stanford-le-Hope and Basildon, shortly after 4.30pm on Monday.

A white van with two occupants collided with a silver Fiat Punto with three occupants inside.

The two women, who were in the Fiat, sadly died at the scene, despite the best efforts of paramedics and police crews.

The woman, 84, was taken to Addenbrooke’s Hospital, in Cambridge, in a critical condition following the crash.

Essex Police confirmed yesterday that she was still in a critical, but stable, condition in hospital.

No names for the victims have yet been released by police.

The driver and passenger in the van, both men, were taken to Basildon hospital with minor injuries.

The road was closed for several hours after the crash while police investigated the incident and the vehicles were recovered.

The air ambulance was also called to the scene and landed nearby.

Two men have since been arrested following the crash.

A 23-year-old man from Tilbury and a 22-year-old man from Basildon have been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, driving while unfit through drink or drugs and attempting to pervert the course of justice.

The men remain in police custody.

Conservative councillor Andrew Barnes, who represents Laindon Park Ward which covers part of Lower Dunton Road, said there were problems with speeding along the road.

There is no indication that this was a factor in the crash.

Mr Barnes said: “Certainly it is the sort of road that people do go too fast down.

“We have suggested before that speed restrictions are needed along there.

“Unfortunately, it is always the case that it takes and accident like this one before action is taken by the county council.

“It will probably be reviewed now.

“I hope they will do something about it now.

“People need to be careful as it is an out of town road.”

Mr Barnes added that it was a popular road and was very well used by a lot of residents and commuters.

Witnesses or anyone who captured dash cam footage are asked to contact Pc Jenny Pirie at the serious collision investigation unit on 01245 240 590 or email collisionappeal@essex.pnn.police.uk.

You can also contact the independent crime fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.