Work to resurface hundreds of miles of roads in Essex to make them pot hole-proof has begun.

The 17-week programme from Essex County Council to cover almost two million square metres of road started last month and, subject to dry weather, should be completed by mid-August.

Workmen will cover the existing surgace with hot bitumen and cover it with stone chippings to form a water-resistant protective layer, improving the road’s skid resistance and extending its life.

Because it seals the road surface against water penetration, known to be a major cause of pot holes, it is hoped the scheme will reduce the number of road defects for longer.

Each road will be subject to a 20mph advisory speed limit for up to two weeks following the work while chippings bed into the surface and further road sweeping is done.

During the work roads may be closed or have traffic controls.

Rodney Bass, county councillor for highways, said: “We are investing in this cost-effective surface dressing method to maintain the integrity of the road network and extend the life of the road. This is part of our commitment for roads we can all be proud of.”