Disruptions are expected to occur in Benfleet, with warnings of roadworks taking place for 38 weeks.


The roadworks, which begin this month, are going to take place on High Road, Benfleet, from the junction with London Road to the junction with Kents Road.


Work is being carried out by gas company, Cadent, on a gas pipe which stretches 1800 metres below Benfleet and is said to have a "history of leaks."


A sign has been placed along High Road in Benfleet warning road users to expect delays whilst the work is carried out over a 38 week period.

It is one of the key roads that connects the town with Canvey Island.


Conservative councillor for St Mary's ward, Andrew Sheldon, said: "The people of Benfleet need clarity on this. 


"I will write to the Chief Executive of Cadent and ask them to make sure that all local residents are kept informed, via the media, of what's going on.


"High Road is in the heart of our town and we will do what we can to minimise disruption.


"Yes, we understand that gas works are important and need to be done but residents need to be kept informed.


"Residents need more information than just that there's going to be 38 weeks of disruption.


A spokesperson for Cadent said: "The existing steel gas main, which has a history of leaks, will be replaced with tough, hardwearing plastic pipes that will last for at least 80 years. 


"Some 170 gas service pipes – the pipes that connect individual properties to the gas main in the road – will also be replaced. 


“The work will ensure safe and reliable gas supplies to local homes and businesses for decades to come. Preparation work is under way on site and the project is expected to take a total of 38 weeks. 


“To keep staff and road-users safe it will be necessary to use temporary traffic lights where necessary. This is a major project. 


"Every effort will be made to reduce disruption to motorists and residents but we would ask people to bear with us while we carry out this essential work.”