TRAFFIC is gridlocked around Benfleet after a sewer burst open on High Road.

The sewer burst yesterday and temporary traffic lights have been put in place while emergency works are carried out to fix the issues.

Queues of traffic are building on the A13 from Rayleigh Road towards High Road, and there are queues Eastbound past Sadlers Farm, with northbound queues on High Road and congestion on surrounding roads.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area and allow extra time for travelling.