A key road will be completely closed for five weeks.

From Monday, July 23 temporary lights will marshal traffic on Alderton Hill in Loughton while Essex Highways surveys the site.

The week after a 24 hour, full closure of Alderton Hill Bridge will kick in from July 30, running for the following five weeks.

During this time, no vehicles will be permitted to cross the bridge due to deep excavations in the carriageway.

The bridge - which is made up of a Victorian arch and two extensions either side - has a weakened footpath and needs to be strengthened.

Part of doing do involves diverting the utility services from the footpath to the carriageway.

A statement from Essex Highways read: "It is recognised this is a traffic sensitive site, and we have therefore scheduled works to coincide with the summer holiday period when traffic flows are expected to be lighter.

"Operatives will be working between the hours of 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday, with reduced hours worked at weekends.

"Pedestrian access will be maintained at all times across the bridge allowing school and shop access.

"Bus operators have been informed of these works and we are currently working with them to establish whether any temporary parking restrictions are needed to support buses running on alternative routes during the road closure period.

"Advance notices will be in place and appropriate diversions will be signed during the closure."

Motorists affecting by the diversion are advised to follow a route up Alderton Hill, Traps Hill, High Road, Old Station Road, Station Road and vice versa.

Vehicle access to Roding Valley High School on Alderton Hill will be permitted via Old Station Road.