Three major roads have been closed in Heybridge since last Monday (July 25), resulting in 'gridlock' in Maldon and the surrounding areas.

Temporary closures have been put in place, covering Langford Road, Maypole Road, and Holloway Road, as work continues on the Westcombe Park development.

As part the planning permission granted by Maldon District Council, a "left-right staggered junction" will be constructed on Maypole Road, which will eventually form part of a new relief road between Langford Road and Broad Street Green.

However, some residents feel the relief road should have been built before work on the development began.

Stephen Collis said: "At least then some traffic could have avoided parts of Maypole Road during the gas main work.

"I would also question [Essex Highways] as to how a major route can be allowed to be closed for so long, and not just partially closed - i.e. one-way traffic light controlled?"

The dark red lines show what motorists have described as 'gridlock' in Maldon and Heybridge, during rush hour. (Image: Google Maps)

Carol Preece said: "During the day, it hasn't been too bad and the diversion routes are clearly marked. Obviously when people are trying to get to work and home again, during the 'rush hour', it becomes gridlocked.

"Too much traffic, not enough infrastructure.

"Too much traffic, not enough infrastructure." Carol Preece

"Perhaps if people who don't need to be out on those roads at that time could try to avoid the area - that might help? Prioritise people who need to use the roads then?"

Sarah Cole said: "At 4.30pm yesterday, I joined the traffic mid-way on the bypass traveling into Heybridge. [It was] slow but not too bad.

"However, the jam in the opposite direction was all the way to the Tesco roundabout and further. Backed up through Langford as far as Mill House!"

Residents living along the diversion route have also faced issues getting in and out of their properties.

Karen* told Nub News it was 'a nightmare'.

She said: "The traffic is constant past our house for most of the day, especially at rush-hour. We have to join the queue just to get to the shops and for my husband to get to work.

"I think this must be impacting local businesses. Hopefully it won't deter people from coming to Maldon during the summer holidays."

Maypole Road, Langford Road, and Holloway Road will be closed until September 4.

In a statement released on Monday, Essex County Council warned: "These works will inevitably cause some delay and inconvenience, so we ask drivers for their patience, and to allow extra travelling time when passing through the area, observing all traffic management in place."

Local bus operators have been made aware of the arrangements, and passengers are requested to check the latest service information with the operator.

Essex County Council have been approached for further comment.

If you have been affected by the road closures, or live on one of the affected roads, please get in touch to share your thoughts on the situation.

*Karen has requested her surname not be included in this article.