THE A127 is closed eastbound near Basildon this morning.

AA Traffic news has stated the road is closed eastbound from the junction with the M25 to the junction with the A128 in East Horndon.

An official cause of the closure has not been given, though there is construction work taking place on the same stretch of road to cut the hedges and verges, and reports have been made online of a gas leak causing problems in the area.

The road has been closed since 7.30am this morning, and there is no indication of when it will reopen.

Motorists are being advised to avoid the road until further notice.

Update 11.14am: The eastbound stretch of the A127 has now reopened.

However, motorists are advised that heavy traffic remains near Childerditch Lane due to a lane closure and construction works.