A MAJOR bridge used by 60,000 drivers daily is set to close.
The Orwell Bridge, located on the A14 near Ipswich, in Suffolk will undergo repairs to replace two vital expansion joints.
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Originally scheduled for 2025, National Highways has fast-tracked the work following concerns raised by MPs about the bridge’s condition.
The repairs will now take place over seven weeks, starting in June 2025.
A National Highways spokesperson explained that the expansion joints, crucial for the bridge’s longevity, need replacing to ensure its continued safety.
“We need to remove and replace two bridge expansion joints on the westbound carriageway,” the spokesperson said.
“This will keep the bridge working for many years to come.”
The Orwell Bridge serves as a key route for traffic to and from the Port of Felixstowe, with over 60,000 vehicles crossing daily.
The closures are expected to cause significant disruption to drivers, residents, and local businesses, as the A14 is a critical link between the port and the rest of the country.
Ipswich MP Jack Abbott has called for a suspension of non-emergency works in the area during the closure to ease the strain.
He acknowledged the necessity of the repairs but warned that the closures would bring “huge disruptions.”
He also raised concerns about the impact on local businesses, particularly those reliant on quick access to the port.
“The repairs to an ageing Orwell Bridge are necessary and unavoidable, and the proposals represent the least worst option available,” Mr. Abbott said.
James Cartlidge, MP for Suffolk South, has sought clarification on the work’s timeline and welcomed the acceleration of repairs.
“It is important that we ensure the safety of this vital infrastructure,” he said, adding that he hoped the work would be completed as quickly and smoothly as possible.
In response to the impending disruption, National Highways has confirmed that contraflow systems will be set up to manage traffic flow during the closure.
Drivers will face diversions and speed restrictions as the work progresses.
National Highways is urging commuters to plan ahead and expect delays during the seven-week period.
Local authorities have yet to comment on additional support measures for residents and businesses who will be affected by the extended roadworks.
However, with the summer tourist season approaching, the maintenance is likely to affect holidaymakers and other travelers, making the closures even more impactful.
Despite the challenges, the necessary repairs are seen as vital for maintaining the bridge’s structural integrity, which is critical for the area’s transportation network.
The completion of the work is expected to provide long-term benefits, ensuring the Orwell Bridge remains safe and operational for years to come.
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