SPEED cameras will be introduced on the new A130 during an eight-week programme of maintenance.

Essex County Council has announced a series of improvements to the central reservation of the A130 near the bridge over the A129 at Rawreth.

One lane in each direction will be closed and a 40mph speed limit will be imposed and enforced by safety cameras as work starts on August 28.

Preliminary works will take place from August 20 installing safety cameras. A vehicle activated sign will also be put up in each direction to give advance warning of speed restrictions before the speed cameras are activated.

Contractors will work throughout the night to complete the project.

The scheme includes new safety fences to protect drivers who lose control of their cars and crash into the central reservation.

Water drainage measures are also included.

Essex County Council said the noisiest aspect of the works will not be carried out at night.

County councillor Norman Hume, responsible for highways, said: "These are important works, which will improve the safety for vehicles using the bypass.

"The works are being undertaken in the most time-effective manner possible and we apologise in advance for any delays this may cause."

The works are expected to last eight weeks.

Further information is available from a dedicated helpline on 0845 351 1130.