Delays expected due to double lane closure on bridge

Rush hour drivers were expected to feel the brunt of worsened traffic on the Orwell Bridge near Ipswich after two lanes were shut at the same time.

They were closed on the major route through Suffolk to allow for £6m repair works to continue on Monday.

Widespread delays previously broke out when an eastbound carriageway was closed on Monday, 23 June, which was followed by a westbound lane on Saturday.

Martin Fellows, from National Highways, warned motorists using the A14 to "allow extra time" for their journeys.

While the lanes were shut, traffic was limited to 60mph on the eastbound side and 40mph for those travelling west while the contraflow system was in place.

Work to replace 37-year-old joints on the bridge was expected to be completed by late August.

It has been a point of concern for Dan Trent, owner of Dan's Coach Travel in Stowmarket.

"It's causing delays to our customers, passengers, drivers - it's causing them stress that they don't need," he said.

Mike Barrett, who runs a food charity in Ipswich, added the traffic was already increasing "mileage, delivery times, fuel costs" prior to the westbound closure.

Queues had previously gone back as far as Sproughton and caused delays on the A12 at the Copdock Interchange.

National Highways acknowledged the traffic issues but said the structural project was essential.

Mr Fellows thanked drivers for their patience in the interim.

"We remain confident that all works will be completed by mid to late August, as originally planned," he added.

"The A14 will still be your best route whilst we are doing this work, so please stay on the A14, but allow extra time for your journey."

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