HIGHWAYS bosses say major roadworks are now only likely to be completed six months behind schedule, after originally fearing it could be as long as eight.

Earlier this month, the Gazette revealed the work to add extra traffic lanes in Colne Bank Avenue in Colchester was now likely to be finished in August, having been scheduled to finish late last year.

But Essex Highways say they now expect work to be done by June 12.

Three of the four lanes could be open this week, following a set of overnight closures for surfacing works.

A spokesman for Essex Highways said: “Carriageway surfacing and lining are in progress on the Colne Bank Avenue widening scheme this week, allowing three lanes of carriageway to reopen once this is complete.

“Following these surfacing works, over the next couple of weeks the site team will concentrate on constructing the southern footway and undertaking other remaining works.

“During this time the fourth lane will remain closed, with adjustments made to traffic management to accommodate safe working.

“We anticipate under the current programme all four lanes will be open to traffic week commencing June 12.”

The work is part of a larger programme of works which will see traffic improvements on Cowdray Avenue and at the bottom of Harwich and Ipswich roads.