Why it matters: The reduction from 17 to eight weeks represents a significant win for residents and businesses who raised concerns about the potential disruption from the original 24-week proposal.
What's new: The housebuilder has revised its schedule for infrastructure improvements at its Westerfield Grove development, which will include two access points serving the development and a planned new school, sewer installation, and new pedestrian and cycle crossing points.
The details: The new timeline involves:
Weeks 1-3 (26 August to 16 September): Partial closure with temporary traffic lights
Weeks 3-11 (16 September to 11 November): Full closure with pedestrian access maintained
Weeks 11-17 (11 November to 16 December): Partial closure resumes with traffic lights
The big picture: Steven Saville, Technical Director at Bellway Essex, said: "We have re-examined every aspect of the project in order to create this revised schedule, which will shorten the full road closure from 17 to eight weeks."
The works are part of planning obligations for the development, which will ultimately deliver 3,500 homes for the town.
How they did it: Bellway relocated the proposed foul sewer off the public highway to inside the development site boundary, removing the need for extensive excavation works in Westerfield Road. The company also re-sequenced the work schedule and extended working hours.
What they're saying: Councillor Paul West, Suffolk County Council's Cabinet Member for Operational Highways, said: "I am very pleased that the duration of the works has been reduced, and I hope Bellway will maintain clear and consistent communication throughout the closure."
What's next: Bellway is continuing to work with emergency services, bus operators, and reviewing diversion routes to minimise disruption. Businesses on Westerfield Road will remain accessible via diversions throughout the closure period.
For questions about the roadworks, contact Bellway on 0800 029 7171 or email bellwayfonnereau@connectpa.co.uk.
