THURROCK council leader wants clarification on plans for a possible new road, linking the Manorway to Canvey.

The Gazette told how a bid for £750,000 was in the offing and would pay for a study to test the feasibility of the new road.

Canvey councillors said their road hopes had received the backing of Transport Secretary Patrick McCloughlin.

John Kent, Thurrock council leader, wants clarification. He said: “If the government has changed its policy on funding studies into new roads I really do want to know.”

Stephen Metcalfe, the South Basildon and East Thurrock MP, added: “The Department for Transport is not supporting the route, although it is fair to say they are not against it either at this stage.”