THE final design has been unveiled for a £5million overhaul of The Bell junction... including the removal of the footbridge and a new left-turn only lane.

Southend Council has confirmed preliminary works will take place in the New Year.

The council has been boosted by £4.3million from the Government’s local growth fund, as well as contributing £700,000 from council funds.

The new design includes a new dedicated left-turn lane into Rochford Road, extending the right-turn onto Hobleythick Lane and a traffic-signal pedestrian crossing on Rochford Road.

There will also be a new pedestrian island on Hobleythick Lane, a ban on turning right onto Rochford Road and the footbridge will be removed because it does not meet disability requirements.

Councillor Ron Woodley, cabinet member for transport, inward and capital investment, said: “The Bell junction is a major route into central Southend, and we must ensure the junction is fit for purpose, with traffic flow and air quality improved, and capacity increased to help deal with the rapidly expanding airport and progression of Airport Business Park Southend.

“The final designs follow lots of good conversations with local residents and businesses in the summer.

“The drop-in sessions were well attended, with over 360 people telling us their favoured option.”

He added: “Lessons have been learnt from the Kent Elms project, and that is why preparatory works are being carried out, and further utility diversions are scheduled.”

Gas and electricity companies are already moving underground pipes and cables around the junction prior to the main works commencing.

The next phase will start on January 13, while the council continues to push for further investment in the area’s roads.

Mr Woodley added: “I also fully recognise that upgrading junctions alone is not a long-term solution.

“We are a growing town, with a growing airport and a major business park under construction. We need fit-for-future infrastructure and I will continue to work with South Essex authorities to make a compelling business case for major investment.”

in a new road serving our town.”