£63m transport project could see mobility hub built

Suffolk County Council wants to construct a mobility hub at Adastral Park, in Martlesham

An integrated mobility hub could be constructed as part of a "transformative" £63m travel improvements project.

Suffolk County Council wants to improve a 6.8 mile (11km) stretch of the A12 between the A14 Seven Hills junction and Woods Lane junction, north of Woodbridge.

If the proposals are approved, the scheme will see a mobility hub - a central location where different modes of transportation are all available in one place - built at Adastral Park, in Martlesham.

The full planning application for the project will be formally submitted to the council's planning directorate on 14 November.

The plans will explore ways to enhance transport connectivity, safety, and accessibility for all users, including motorists, cyclists, pedestrians, and public transport passengers.

Councillor Chris Chambers, Suffolk County Council cabinet member for transport strategy, said the changes would make a huge different to motorists.

"These proposals are a transformative infrastructure investment which reflect the council's dedication to improving regional mobility, reducing congestion, and promoting sustainable transport."

Chris Chambers, from Suffolk County Council, believes the improvements could be "transformative"

The proposals have been drawn up following two public consultations since the scheme was first outlined in 2020.

They will be formally submitted to the council's planning directorate on 14 November 14 and the public and interested stakeholders are invited to submit their views.

If the planning application is approved, a whole host of works could be implemented, including major upgrades to improve traffic flow and enhancements of seven road junctions.

The key elements of the scheme include:

• Construction of a mobility hub at Adastral Park - where different methods of travel such as public transit, bike-sharing, car-sharing, and e-scooters will be integrated - designed to support sustainable travel options

• Replacement of the Martlesham footbridge with a new non-motorised users bridge to improve accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists

• New signalised bus link junction north of Anson Road, connecting the A12 and Main Road via Portal Avenue

• Dual carriageway upgrade between the A12/B1438 Ipswich Road junction and the A12/B1079 Grundisburgh Road junction, including a new layby, shared use footway/cycleway, and agricultural accessway

• New shared use footway/cycleways at Portal Avenue and north of A1152 Woods Lane, along with improved crossing facilities at key junctions

• Additional highway features, such as maintenance bays, traffic signs, upgraded signals, and pedestrian crossings

'Enhancing local infrastructure'

The council secured £54m in government funding to put towards the project in 2023, while the rest will come from developer contributions, including from Sizewell C and Brightwell Lakes.

County councillor Richard Smith said the scheme would "future-proof the A12 and deliver major benefits".