HIGHWAYS inspectors were called to out to emergency electrical works after elderly residents were left unable to use the pavement safely.

UK Power Networks (UKPN) began electrical works to repair a fault with underground cabling in Leigh last week, close to Rochford Corner in Rayleigh Road.

But the works meant one side of the pavement was put entirely out of use.

Councillor Paul Collins took the issue to the council after residents contacted him with concerns.

Southend Council highway inspectors visited the site along with representatives from UKPN on Wednesday to check the temporary walkways were wide enough and safe for residents to continue to use.

The site was given the all-clear and, with repairs now complete, UKPN bosses have pledged to return the pathway to its normal state “as soon as possible”.

A council spokesman said: “UK Power Networks is currently undertaking essential maintenance work in Rochford Corner. We were made aware of concerns regarding the traffic management, which is in place to keep pedestrians and workers safe.

“Our team inspected the site and whilst the layout of the traffic management is compliant with code of practise and all permit conditions have been met, we have forwarded concerns raised with us by local residents to UKPN and they have confirmed to us that the site will be cleared following completion of the essential maintenance.”

A UKPN spokesman said: “Electrical work to repair the fault at is now complete and our team is now working to resurface and clear the site as soon as possible and ahead of schedule.

“Safety is paramount at UK Power Networks and we have today done a site visit to check the pedestrian walkways on the site are wide enough and operating properly. This site passed a council inspection yesterday.

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused by these essential works.”