TRAFFIC driving through Thorpe-Le-Soken has been disrupted by a hole in the road several feet deep.

The hole, at least a foot across, appeared in front of the Bell Inn on High Street, and added to the usual congestion.

The road is now closed in both directions while repairs are carried out.

Peter Byford of Little Clacton said: “The road has collapsed. How long will it be like that? Traffic going through there is already a nightmare."

Essex Police Highways department coned off the section of road, reducing it to single lane.

This caused tailbacks along the centre of the village.

Later this afternoon, it was also reported the B1033 was closed between Thorpe and Weeley roundabout.

A highways officer warned people to stay clear of the hole.

He said: “It’s a sewer collapse. That’s what it looks like to me."

The officer said highways inspectors have been called out to investigate.

A spokesperson for Essex Highways also commented: “This issue was reported to us today, and we have a crew on the way with temporary traffic lights and to make the area safe. We are also in contact with Anglian Water for them to investigate whether there is a water or sewage pipe issue under the road.

“Depending on what is found in the initial investigation, a full repair will then be carried out.”