FLOODING at Rayleigh Weir could be a thing of the past after work to fix problems arising during downpours.

The A127 Rayleigh Weir underpass has caused problems for motorists during recent deluges, but Essex County Council says, following an extensive investigation, it has identified the problem and rectified it.

Switches designed to trigger when the water reached a certain level had been malfunctioning.

A spokesman for the council said: “Highways discovered the problem that was causing flooding and has fixed it. It has also installed an early warning system that will alert maintenance teams to any potential problems.”

The underpass suffered major flooding between August 2013 and February 2014. In June, flash floods caused the closure of the A127 between Rayleigh Weir and Progress Road. The council has said it is confident the work has eased the problem.

Rodney Bass, councillor responsible for highways and transportation, said: “I am pleased there has been no further flooding of the Rayleigh Weir underpass since we completed work there in August.

“As a result, residents have been able to use the underpass without a problem. Essex County Council has had no major cleanup costs as a result of flooding, and no insurance claims relating to the area.”

The news will be welcomed by motorists and businesses who suffer during delays caused by frequent closures of the underpass.

Denise Rossiter, chief executive of Essex Chambers of Commerce, said: “We welcome this news.

Essex Chambers of Commerce is glad the council has responded to the needs of business. It will be particularly welcome news for commuters and early morning traffic.

“We’re delighted to hear the works seems to have alleviated the problem and hope it doesn't happen again."