I am writing to request information under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 regarding the temporary traffic lights on Woodend Bridge, Witham (located just prior to the slip road for southbound A12), which have been in place for approximately 10 years instead of a permanent bridge repair.
I would be grateful if you could provide the following information:
Why were the temporary traffic lights installed initially?
How was the bridge damaged that led to the need for the traffic lights?
What is the estimated cost to permanently repair or replace the bridge?
What is the purpose or intended benefit of the temporary traffic lights compared to permanently repairing the bridge?
Have any assessments or reports been undertaken to evaluate the impact, effectiveness, or risks of maintaining the lights long-term rather than pursuing a permanent bridge solution?
If so, please provide copies. What is the total amount of public money spent to date on the installation, maintenance, and operation of these temporary traffic lights since they were first installed?
Please provide a year-by-year breakdown of costs, including:
Installation costs
Ongoing maintenance and servicing
Equipment rental or leasing fees
Any staffing or operational costs (if applicable)
Are there any current plans, budgets, or timelines for repairing the bridge or removing the temporary lights?
I would also like to note that the current setup of the temporary traffic lights causes significant traffic build-up, which then results in a large volume of vehicles crossing the bridge in batches rather than in a natural, staggered flow. This appears counterintuitive, as it potentially places greater concentrated weight on the bridge at one time, which may further compromise its integrity.
Please advise whether this effect has been considered or assessed by the Council or any other relevant authority.
