DRIVERS could be set for delays with a key road set to shut overnight next month.

Head Street, in Halstead, is scheduled to close on July 11.

The road, which is an important thoroughfare in the centre of the town, will close from its mini-roundabout junction with Colchester Road.

The closure will last for three nights starting at 8pm and lasting until 5am.

Lorries trying to bypass the works have been recommended to follow a 28-mile diversion taking around 52 minutes.

This route, which has to be accessible for HGVS, would take drivers through Sudbury, Cavendish and Great Yeldham.

However, quicker routes are possible by using narrower Halstead streets.

The closure is needed while work is carried out by Anglian Water.

Essex Highways said: “The closure is required for the safety of the public and workforce while stop-tap replacement works are undertaken by Anglian Water.

“Access for emergency service vehicles and pedestrians will be maintained at all times during the closure."