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Orwell Bridge to close for four nights next week

Drivers will face overnight diversions as National Highways carries out vital survey work on the A14 Orwell Bridge next week.

Why it matters: National Highways said it will carry out the essential survey and maintenance work over four nights, between 8pm and 6am, Monday to Thursday.

The Orwell Bridge in Ipswich
The Orwell Bridge in Ipswich(Oliver Rouane-WilliamsIpswich.co.uk)

On Monday and Tuesday evenings: A full westbound carriageway closure will be in place between the Seven Hills Interchange and the Wherstead turn-off.

  • The following diversion route will be in place while the full carriageway closure is in place.

  • A single lane closure will be in place in the eastbound carriageway simultaneously.

On Wednesday and Thursday evenings: A single lane closure will be in place in both directions between the Nacton and Wherstead turn-offs.

What they're saying: A National Highways spokesman said: "We understand the impact that any reduction in capacity on the Orwell Bridge can have on all road users.

"Our survey and maintenance work is vital to ensure the bridge remains safe and serviceable."

For context: Both carriageways will be open during the daytime as the work is only taking place overnight.

The closure will be in place the same time a stretch of the A14 will be closed between Copdock and Claydon.

The eastbound carriageway will be closed from 8pm to 6am on weeknights between Monday, March 10 and Friday, March 14.

The bottom line: Drivers should plan alternative routes or allow extra time for journeys using the A14 during overnight hours next week.

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