MAJOR works to widen the A12 are due to start within three years, to help connect people across the county.

The scheme is part of a £1.1billion investment in East of England roads which will begin before 2020.

As part of the plans, the dual-carriageway is set to be widened between Chelmsford and the A120 junction in Essex.

Highways England on Monday (January 23) will launch a public consultation on the plans.

Highways England Chief Executive Jim O’Sullivan said: “(The improvements) are much needed by the half a million drivers who use them every day. 

“Each scheme has been developed by working with local partners and through this consultation we are welcoming views on them. 

 “I encourage anyone with an interest in these roads – whether they drive on them, live near them or depend on them for trade – to get involved.”

The A12 scheme, which will be completed alongside improvements in Suffolk, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire, was initially announced in December 2014.