Night closures on the A12 between Chelmsford and Colchester cut access from 9pm to 5am to carry out resurfacing and road marking work. The programme includes the Marks Tey Interchange and runs until 10 October.
Eight hours, one fresh running surface
The overnight possession allows contractors to remove worn layers of carriageway and lay new surface material while traffic volumes are low. Resurfacing replaces the upper layer of pavement that tyres grip, restoring texture and reducing noise and vibration for road users.
White lines tell the story
Resurfacing is only part of the job. The existing road markings are stripped out or covered by new surface layers, so they must be reapplied in exactly the right places.
Lane lines, edge lines, arrows and tapers provide more than lane division. They guide drivers through merges, slip roads and junctions, especially in low visibility conditions such as rain or darkness.
Marks Tey: clarity where it matters most
The Marks Tey Interchange requires precise lane marking to separate merging traffic and support driver decision-making. A missed lane line or late taper reading at this interchange can cause hesitation or sudden lane changes, creating hazards for following drivers.
One possession, two tasks
Combining resurfacing and marking within the same overnight closure reduces disruption. Road authorities and contractors use the limited possession time to complete both tasks, avoiding repeated closures that increase inconvenience for drivers and residents.
What drivers notice – and what they don’t
Drivers typically focus on the inconvenience of closures rather than the importance of road markings. However, when markings are missing or unclear, especially in poor weather or darkness, the road can feel unpredictable and unsafe.
Accurate road marking is a key safety element that often goes unnoticed when done correctly. It ensures the carriageway layout reads clearly to drivers at speed.
Overnight work on a key route
The A12 carries a mix of long-distance, local and freight traffic. Night-time working minimises disruption while ensuring the route is handed back in time for the morning peak.
Work runs nightly from 9pm to 5am until 10 October, including resurfacing and road marking at Marks Tey. Road users should plan for closures during these times and expect a clearer, safer road once works complete.
