ROADS in Basildon will close overnight next year as part of ongoing works to improve air quality.

Parts of the A132 East Mayne and Christopher Martin Road will be shut overnight in January for the safety of workers, Essex Highways has said. The project will see the existing shared pedestrian and cycle route in East Mayne moved to reduce residents’ exposure to air pollution.

It comes after part of East Mayne was identified as exceeding legal limits for nitrogen dioxide - a harmful gas caused by vehicle emissions.

Works started in November but will pause over the Christmas period.

During the next phase in January, overnight closures will be needed.

Signed diversion routes will be in place and restrictions will be removed at the end of each shift to allow the roads to remain open during the day.

The planned closures are:

• Christopher Martin Road will close from 9pm to 5am between Honywood Road and the A132 East Mayne on Thursday 6, Friday 7, and Monday 10 January.

• The A132 East Mayne Southbound will be close from 9pm to 5am between the Nevendon Roundabout and the junction with Cricketers Way on Wednesday, January 12 and Thursday, January 13.

Essex Highways says further overnight closures of Christopher Martin Road are expected later in January 2022 and dates will be published once they are confirmed.