Abnormal load to be transported through county

Roads will be temporarily closed and parking restrictions will be put in place so an abnormal load can be transported through Suffolk next weekend.

A 178-tonne electrical transformer will embark on a seven-hour journey from Ipswich docks to National Grid's substation on Bullen Lane, Bramford on Sunday, 5 January.

In order to accommodate the 208ft (63.4m) vehicle used to move the load, the Orwell Bridge will be shut and some street furniture will be removed.

Motorists have been urged to avoid the area to "allow the load to travel through safely" while restrictions and road closures are in place.

Paul West, Suffolk County Council's cabinet member for Ipswich, operational highways and flooding, thanks residents for their "understanding and patience".

"We do appreciate these operations can be a nuisance and inconvenient for local people," he added.

The abnormal load is expected to depart at about 08:00 GMT and arrive in Bramford by 15:00, although timings are subject to change.

The move will be led by Suffolk Highways teams who will follow the vehicles and temporary remove and reinstate street furniture along the route.

Suffolk Police, meanwhile, will manage traffic with rolling roadblocks and temporary stop points may be put in place in an effort to minimise congestion.

There may also be times when the load has to travel on the opposite side of the carriageway at times, including roundabouts.

Once in place the transformer will transfer electric energy from one voltage level to another, supporting the growing energy demand in the county.

"Our teams continue to support the moving of abnormal loads through the county, ensuring these are done safely and with minimum impact on residents," said West.

"I want to take this opportunity to thank those who have worked hard to execute this complex operation, ensuring it runs smoothly."

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