Orwell Bridge reopens after weeks of delays

National Highways said it "had kept people informed" during the roadworks

Construction work on a bridge has been completed about two weeks ahead of schedule.

National Highways had been replacing the expansion joints of the bridge on the A14 in Ipswich, Suffolk, since June.

The eastbound carriageway reopened on Wednesday and a 40mph speed limit was put in place for safety reasons.

Simon Amor, from National Highways, said: "I would like to thank local residents, the community, businesses and drivers for their patience while we did this work."

Work had caused severe delays and congestion for some drivers who used the bridge.

It also led to frustrations for businesses in the area, with concerns about the effect it would have on inward investment.

The westbound carriageway reopened on Monday with the road then fully reopened on Wednesday.

Overnight work is still expected for about a week to replace a safety barrier and for other maintenance work.

Mr Amor added: "All has gone to plan and we worked around the clock to get things done on time.

"We have a 40pmh speed limit in place for safety reasons as the central reserve safety barrier is incomplete at this time."

National Highways said it would review feedback following the roadworks ahead of the replacement of the eastbound joints.