Next stage of Orwell Bridge closure delayed

The work is expected to cost £6m to replace the two expansion joints

The next stage of roadworks planned for the Orwell Bridge has been put back a day after road users reported "major delays" on the A14.

A summer of various closures is planned for the Orwell Bridge, near Ipswich, as National Highways works to replace two expansion joints.

The eastbound carriageway has been reduced from two lanes to one over the past couple of days, resulting in lengthy delays for users.

National Highways planned to close the westbound carriageway on Thursday, operating a contraflow system on the two lanes of the eastbound carriageway, but now says this will happen overnight on Friday.

Martin Fellows, regional director of National Highways in the East of England, said: "We are now planning to put the contraflow in place overnight on Friday 27 June.

"It will be fully operational in both directions for 6am on Saturday morning."

The work is expected to cost £6m and once replaced the joints will last for 50 years.

Originally the contraflow system was set to take place from 26 June to August, with one lane open in each direction, 24/7.

Mr Fellows added: "We will be working around the clock, including weekends, to carry out the work as quickly and as safely as possible."

Drivers are urged to allow for plenty of extra time when making journeys in the area

National Highways said the A14 was still the best route to take and encouraged drivers not to divert on to local roads near Ipswich.

However, it did warn to allow for more time when making journeys.