TWO lay-bys on Thurrock roads are to be closed later this month in an effort to tackle anti-social behaviour.
The aim of the order is to address unauthorised street trading, reduce road damage and improve road safety.
One lay-by is on the A13, around 800 metres from the A1089 junction on the eastbound carriageway, and the other is off the A128 around 70m from the Church Road junction on the western side.
The order states its purpose is to ‘ensure safety of the public and to prevent damage to the road’.
The ban comes in to force on Monday 27 February and lasts until 26 July 2018, giving the council the opportunity to consider a permanent solution.
Cllr Brian Little, Highways and Transport Portfolio Holder at Thurrock Council, said: “By bringing in this temporary order we will be able to assess its affect before taking permanent action.
“Highways England have – at our urging – closed several lay-bys on their section of the A13 and A1089 Dock Approach Road and we have all seen the improvements, now we want to follow suit.
“We should not have to ask our teams to clear up – at tax payer expense – the sorts of things that can be left in these places and nor should we as a council provide places for people to trade – without paying tax or rent – whether they are licensed or not.”
