Incident

PICTURES: Burst water main affects several properties

Firefighters were called to the scene of a burst water main in Braintree this morning.

On arrival, crews confirmed that several properties were being affected by the water.

Road closures are currently in place for all of Beckers Green Road and much of Cressing Road (from the junction of Beckers Green Road up to the A120 roundabout).

Crews worked hard to protect properties from the excess water and ensure the water level remained under control.

At 9am, Group Manager Craig McLellan said: "Our crews are working as hard as they can to firstly control the water and secondly minimise disruption. This is a large water main that's burst, that's created a lot of standing water in the area - so we're doing everything we can to drain it as quickly as possible.

"If you're travelling nearby today, please do avoid this area. We expect these roads to be closed for some time."

At 9.30am, the water board were in attendance.

At 10.45am, firefighters were beginning to hand over the scene to Anglian Water.

Station Manager Lee Hurst said: "I'd like to thank the local community for their support this morning and recognise the hard work of our crews in managing the flow of water.

"This was a really challenging incident and we're grateful to Braintree Rugby Club for allowing us to use their pitch to help drain some of this water.

"A lot of water still remains in the area, but we are now in a position to begin handing the scene over to Anglian Water, who will be able to update on how this incident progresses. Please do keep an eye on their channels for the latest updates."

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