A NEW task force has been set up to try and solve motoring woes on the notorious A127.

The aim is to transform the road from one of the busiest roads in the country not controlled by Highways England which holds back growth into a route fit for purpose.

Called the A127 Economic Growth Corridor Task Force it includes MPs, councillors and representatives from Transport for London.

The A127, which sees more than 78,000 vehicles use the road on a daily basis, suffers a range of congestion problems on a daily basis.

The long term hope is for a motorway standard of road but discussions will take place about what is realistic and when changes can be made.

Councillor Terry Cutmore, leader of Rochford Council, said: “The main thing we want to do is re-trunk the A127 and bring it up to a motorway standard.

“By doing that, people will be encouraged to use it.

“There are no main trunk roads in this area at all from the M25 onwards, we are in need of proper linking roads that will take things forward.”

The task force jointly agreed that work will be carried out through proactive engagement with residents, businesses and transport users to ensure a solution that works for everyone.

Councillor John Lamb, leader of Southend Council, said: “We are pleased to be working collaboratively with our partners to ensure the entire A127 is fully equipped to sustain the continued growth of the region.

“London Southend airport continue to play a key role in the economic prosperity and future of the area.

Southend is fast becoming a hot-spot for economic development, and we must ensure that the road infrastructure supports this growth both locally and across the region.”