Drivers have been flouting bus lane restrictions to avoid a four-mile diversion.

Rush-hour drivers faced tailbacks yesterday as roadworks closed part of Colchester’s Northern Approach Road.

The closure will be in place for three to six weeks while the road is connected to the park and ride, currently being built.

Residents in normally quiet residential streets reported disruption as drivers used the Nayland Road bus lane to find a shortcut.

Trina Bamber, of Nayland Road, said: “There have been loads of cars coming through on both sides, not just buses and taxis.

“You will get half a dozen cars coming through one after another.

"Once one does it, they think they can all get away with it."

Full story in today's Daily Gazette