AN INNOVATIVE road treatment is being trialled to target patchy local roads in Chelmsford.

This year Essex Highways will trial the new and cost-efficient resurfacing technique in various locations across the county.

Roads have already been identified in Chelmsford and Castle Point, with a number of other sites currently under consideration, including in Basildon and Harlow.

The trial involves patching individual defects, then applying a thin coating over the entire road surface, making it weatherproof and safer.

The aim is to reduce the length of time a road has to be closed for works, by avoiding associated costs like raising gullies, and to create a more attractive and longer-lasting surface.

The trial is due to take place this spring and summer.

Eddie Johnson, councillor for highways and transport, visited Alder Drive in Chelmsford, which is set to benefit from the scheme.