Bridge replacement on hold after concrete issues

Work to replace the bridge have been put on hold after an issue was identified

Works to replace a bridge are on hold due to issues found with newly installed concrete columns.

The A1088 at Bridge Farm Bridge at Stowlangtoft, near Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, has been closed since July.

Suffolk Highways previously said it would be closed until 20 December.

On Wednesday, the highways team said the work had been "temporarily paused for a brief period" due to issues found with the concrete columns, also known as piles.

"Unfortunately, in the last few days we have identified some issues with the concrete piles which have been installed," a statement from Suffolk Highways said.

"We are currently investigating and discussing these issues with the company who supplied the concrete, as well as other key stakeholders, to assess the impact of these issues and determine the best course of action to resolve them.

"Works have been temporarily paused for a brief period whilst this happens.

"This is consequently likely to have an impact on the duration of our programme of works, although the extent of this is yet to be confirmed."

'Work towards a solution'

Suffolk Highways confirmed its teams had already excavated the existing road to enable the bridge to be demolished.

It added it would not be safe to reopen the road while the works were paused and teams would "work proactively to ensure that the scheme is completed as soon as possible".

"The advanced warning signs advising of the road closure will remain in place, and the scheme dates on these [the signs] will not be amended until we receive confirmation of the revised programme," the statement continued.

"We sincerely apologise for the delay in the bridge replacement works and are conscious of the impact this will have on local communities.

"Please be reassured that we are continuing to work towards a solution to minimise the overall duration of the works, so that the A1088 can be re-opened as soon as it is safe to do so."