CALLS are being made for a sound barrier in a street after claims increased traffic generated by the new Sadlers Farm junction is causing sleepless nights.

Residents of The Meads, in Vange, say their lives have been turned upside down since the £63million improvements to the roundabout were completed last year.

They claim an increase in traffic and noise from the Pitsea flyover near their homes is keeping them up at night and causing stress.

They are urging Essex County Council to install a sound barrier. Jackie Harris, who has lived in The Meads for more than twenty years, said: “We need a good night’s sleep. It’s out human rights.

“I am stressed, and the noise is pushing me to the edge. It’s horrendous, and is going to get worse.”

Residents have been lobbying the council for a year, but feel their pleas have fallen on deaf ears.

Ms Harris added: “Everyone who comes to our street wonders how we live like this? I think we are treated like scum. Why are we being ignored?”

David Burton Sampson, Labour council candidate for Pitsea South-east, said: “There has been a massive increase in speed and traffic, resulting in a massive increase in noise.

“It’s become unbearable for residents. They are being woken in the middle of the night.

“The noise is shocking, and starting to cause significant stress.”

The county council recently commissioned an eight-day study of noise levels from the road. It has yet to review the recommendations.

A spokesman said: “We have met with residents to discuss their concerns about noise from the A13 “As a result of these discussions, the council commissioned an independent survey which was carried out two weeks ago. Once we receive the official report, we will review the recommendations and a decisionwill be made on how to proceed.

“We are committed to keeping residents updated and are doing everything we can to investigate their concerns.”