A councillor is asking for an updated speed survey to take place on a accident hotspot near Halstead.

Jo Beavis (Conservative, Hedingham) was recently appointed chairman of the Braintree Local Highways Panel.

One of her first priorities after taking on her new role is to ask for a fresh speed survey to be conducted on the A131, near Halstead.

Ms Beavis said: “The road is an area that I picked up on from my tour of the Halstead Division that may benefit from an up to date speed survey to help me understand traffic levels and speeds.

“Like all requests Essex County Council will take a decision as to whether schemes fit Highways criteria or not.”

As part of her new role, Ms Beavis has been touring around divisions in the district meeting with residents and community groups as well as parish and town councils to build up a picture of highways issues in the area.

She said: “I’m gaining an understanding of which highways schemes and projects are currently being considered by Essex County Council.

“The aim of my tour is to look at new issues and highlight them to Essex County Council for further consideration.

“With the support of Essex County Council and Braintree Council some of the issues I have highlighted have been actioned and work carried out or due to be carried out.”

In August a 21-year-old motorcyclist was taken to Addenbrooke’s Hospital by air ambulance with serious injuries after being involved in a crash on the A131 near Penny Pot Corner.

The busy route is the main road linking Halstead with High Garrett, Bocking and Braintree.