‘Time’s running out on danger road before someone is seriously injured’ says Audley End Estates resident agent

Audley End crashes (Image: Archant)

Up to 20 cars are estimated to have been involved in collisions on the B1383 between Audley End and Littlebury since April 2010 – many causing extensive damage to the flint walls owned by Audley End Estate.

Resident agent Tom White told the Reporter he had been left “speechless” by drivers failing to heed repeated warnings.

“People are driving too quickly and have a lack of awareness for autumn road conditions,” he said.

“Essex County Council has been promising action since I don’t know when, but nothing has been done and time is running out before someone is seriously hurt or worse.

“I am speechless at the attitude of drivers and the cost to the Estate, insurance companies and the ­emergency services will be enormous.”

It is the third time this year motorists have been warned about the road.

About £50,000 damage has been done to the flint walls over the past three years – a cost largely borne by drivers’ insurance companies.

Uttlesford cabinet member Councillor Alastair Walters, also chairman of the district’s highways panel, said in May that reflective hazard warning verge marker posts and a road surface dressing to improve skid resistance were two measures that had been agreed.

Essex Highways was also looking at introducing vehicle-activated signs warning drivers to slow down.

But the lack of action since has frustrated Cllr Walters.

“I questioned the speed of getting approved schemes implemented and I’m now hoping there will be a quicker response,” he said following a meeting with the Essex portfolio holder for highways last week.

“This particular scheme is not an expensive one but it has to be signed off for final approval and that is what is taking time.

“That is not good enough for me and that is why I mentioned it.

“Hopefully it will speed up not only this job but also other more minor ones approved elsewhere in Uttlesford.”