Protesters plan to block A12 at Colchester over fuel prices

Frustrated motorists say they want to create a blockade at junction 28 of the A12, by the JobServe Community Stadium, on July 4.

A poster circulated on social media states the action is to “stand up to fuel prices UK wide” and encourages protestors to block the road.

For many, filling their tank will now cost more than £100, with an average-sized 55 litre tank, costing £100.15 for petrol drivers and £103.45 for diesel, figures reveal.

An Essex Police spokesman said the force is aware of the details of the planned protest and is keeping an eye on the situation.

Protest - the A12 at the JobServe Community Stadium during a previous traffic incident

He said: “We are monitoring the situation and appropriate policing plans will be put in place should we believe they are needed.

“Whilst we are not in any way anti-protest, we would encourage anyone planning such an event to consider other avenues through which they can make their views known.”

Mile End councillor Martin Goss said he appreciates the daily struggles faced by residents amid rising fuel and energy prices, but argued it was not the right way to go about demanding action.

He said: “I totally understand people’s right to protest but this isn’t the right approach. I would urge people to not get involved.

Concerned - Martin Goss (Image: Newsquest)

“All action like this does is frustrate people who are already in a stressed environment, it doesn’t get the public on board. Blockages like this do nothing to get others on side.

“There are other ways to deal with matters like this. I don’t approve of it and would applaud others if they kept away and ignored it.

“Hopefully those behind any such idea will be arrested and dealt with by the law during their attempt.”

Users circulating details of the protest on social media were contacted for comment by the Gazette.