FIVE alternatives for a dual carriageway link for the A120 between Braintree and the A12 in Colchester have been revealed. 

Residents are being urged to take advantage of a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ opportunity to improve the A120 in Essex and boost the local economy.

Today saw the launch of an eight-week public consultation into five alternatives, following an in-depth analysis of nearly 70 separate routes.

Cllr Kevin Bentley, Essex County Council deputy leader responsible for economic growth and partnerships, said: “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Essex residents to improve this heavily-used link road and give a boost to local business.

“Upgrades to this section of the A120 are vital to support the continuing economic and housing growth across Essex and East Anglia.

“We want to work with local people to ensure we put the best possible option to central Government so as not to risk missing out on this golden opportunity.

“If you think this stretch of the A120 needs improving, you need to make your voice heard.

“Whether you have a preference for a specific route, or just want to see your journey times decrease, please take a couple of minutes to fill out this consultation and change the future of this road for years to come.”

Public information events are scheduled to take place on the following dates:

• Monday, 30 January (1pm-8pm) – Bradwell Village Hall

• Thursday, 2 February (1pm-8pm) – Silver End Village Hall

• Monday, 6 February (1pm-8pm) – Rivenhall Hotel

• Tuesday, 7 February (1pm-8pm) – Marks Tey Village Hall

• Friday, 10 February (1pm-8pm) – Charter Hall, Colchester

• Saturday, 11 February (11am-5pm) – Spring Lodge Centre, Witham

• Tuesday, 14 February (1pm-8pm) – Feering Community Centre

• Wednesday, 15 February (1pm-8pm) – Civic Centre, Chelmsford

• Saturday, 18 February (11am-5pm) – Alec Hunter Academy, Braintree • Wednesday, 22 February (1pm-8pm) – Cressing Sports and Social Club • Saturday, 25 February (11am-5pm) – Coggeshall Village Hall

A number of the A120 consultation events will be run jointly with Highways England’s A12 consultation which is set to be launched on January 23.

Drivers, residents, businesses and other interested parties can make their views known by filling out the survey online at www.a120essex.co.uk.