GROUND investigation works to create a new bus lane off a busy road in Colchester are set to start, with construction likely to start this year.

Boreholes, trial trenches and observation pits are set to be created in Northern Approach Road over the next three or four weeks.

The area is being investigated in preparation for the creation of a new priority lane, which will be used by the town's so-called rapid transit system.

Workers will be taking various samples and installing equipment in the area to monitor groundwater.

Essex Highways has written to residents in the area advising them of the ground investigation works.

Funding for the first parts of the rapid transit system, along with a new link road between the A133 and A120, has been secured from the Government as part of a £99 million Housing Infrastructure Fund bid.

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A spokesman for Essex Highways said: "The ‘priority lane’ along North Approach was originally identified in 2006, as part of the wider Northern Approach Road and wider housing development approval already constructed, with the intention of increasing the public transport offer in the town in future years.

"Following the confirmation of Government investment in proposals for a new rapid transit system within the town, the design is now underway.

"The scheme will see the creation of a ‘priority’ corridor linking the A12 Park and Ride with key destinations across the town, before reaching the university and another transport hub located off the new A120-A133 Link Road, supporting the proposed Tending Colchester Garden Community development.

"Once complete, the corridor will provide priority over other traffic, enabling fast regular services around the town."

The new town will eventually be home to 9,000 residents after plans for the garden community were approved by a Government Planning Inspector as part of Colchester Council's Local Plan.

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The final designs for the so-called rapid transit system are set to be completed in the coming months with construction set to start at the end of the year.

Questions should be emailed to linkroadandrapidtransit@essexhighways.org.

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