MAJOR traffic disruption is expected when a series of road closures - which will last 18 weeks - begin tomorrow.

Gas main replacement work will be taking place for more than four months in The Fairway, Leigh.

The first phase of the closure, which starts tomorrow and will last six weeks, will see the road closed between Eastwood Road North and Moor Park Gardens.

A Southend Council spokesman said: "This is the largest main renewal National Grid has undertaken in the borough since their eight-year programme commenced four years ago.

"The closure is required because of the large diameter of the gas main which measures at 18 inches and the scale and depth of excavations required."

The second phase of the closure will see the section from Moor Park Gardens to the A127 shut.

The council spokesman added: "During Phase 1, the right hand filter lane off of the A127 towards Leigh will still be in use, with vehicles diverted off of The Fairway to Bellhouse Lane, via Moor Park Gardens.

"Alternatively vehicles can continue to the next right hand filter lane at Bellhouse Lane. Access to the A127 travelling from Eastwood Road North will be directly via Bellhouse Lane during Phase 1 and 2.

"The section of The Fairway between Eastwood Road North and Moor Park Gardens will be re-opened once Phase 1 has been completed but there will be no access to the A127 due to the Phase 2 works.

"Moor Park Gardens will remain open throughout the project."

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