MOTORISTS could soon be forced to cut their speed at a blackspot as plans to introduce traffic calming measures moved a step closer.

Councillors in Stanford-le-Hope and Corringham have long campaigned for measures in Southend Road, Corringham, to slow down motorists who have been clocked doing more than twice the 30mph speed limit.

Now Thurrock Council has announced it will launch a formal consultation with residents over plans to introduce a zebra crossing and flashing speed signs – which flash the limit at those breaking it.

However, while councillors have said they are pleased some action is being taken, they are adamant they don’t want to see speed bumps brought into the road.

Phil Anderson, Tory ward councillor for Stanford East and Corringham town, who has been campaigning to tackle dangerous speeding in South-end Road for more than a year, said: “These measures will finally give us everything residents voted for in the survey which we held last year.

“I am annoyed it has taken so long, and that several more serious accidents have occurred before the council has finally taken action. “Hopefully this will now make Southend Road safer for drivers and pedestrians alike.”

A speed survey carried out in Southend Road last October found 46 per cent of vehicles using the road broke the 30mph speed limit, with 23 vehicles clocked doing 70mph or more.

Anyone interested in having their say on the consultation can e-mail phil@corringhamconservatives.com