THE first steps to combat speeding on a Stanford-le-Hope road have been taken.

Red textured markings and “slow” signs are being installed on Southend Road this week after a long campaign by Thurrock Conservatives.

Ward councillors, who received a string of complaints from residents, campaigned for action after a speed survey revealed the 30mph limit was regularly being broken, with some drivers hitting speeds of 70mph.

Tory leader and Stanford East councillor, Phil Anderson, welcomed the news, but said more needs to be done.

He said: “It is great to see the first measures to reduce speed and improve safety on Southend Road being taken. This is a clear step in the right direction, but few residents believe this will be enough on its own.

“We have got an application in for flashing speed signs and a pedestrian crossing and I am hopeful this will be approved to complete the package of measures.”