Why it matters: Suffolk County Council has committed to developing a robust business case for government investment following weeks of heavy congestion caused by A14 Orwell Bridge repair works in July, which severely impacted local businesses and residents.
The big picture: The "root and branch" review will assess the transport network, identify strengthening measures, and establish next steps for improvements.
Councillors voted for the package on 10 July, following the bridge works, which highlighted systemic weaknesses affecting the movement of people and goods across the county.
What's included: The review will examine the Orwell Bridge and A14 corridor, Port of Felixstowe connections, Sizewell power stations access, and the need to upgrade the Ely/Haughley rail junction. Future housing needs, funding options, and the role of the future Mayor for Norfolk and Suffolk will also feature.
The wider context: Suffolk has been repeatedly overlooked for major transport investment, with no improvements to the Strategic Road Network included in the first three Road Investment Strategies.
What they're saying: Councillor Chris Chambers, Suffolk County Council Cabinet member for Transport Strategy, said: "Suffolk has been on the backburner of too many governments for far too long. This county is crying out for investment in its transport infrastructure.
"A northern bypass for Ipswich alone is not going to be the solution – it may be part of it but there are other things that need to be done as well if we are to tackle the congestion that is shackling the movement of people and goods."
What's next: The council will continue pressing for the Ely/Haughley rail junction scheme to be included in the next available government funding round. Chambers has invited the Transport Secretary to meet with senior transport officers and Jack Abbott MP to discuss Suffolk's transport needs and funding options.
The bottom line: Suffolk is developing a comprehensive strategy to secure long-overdue transport investment, moving beyond quick fixes to address fundamental infrastructure weaknesses that leave the county vulnerable to economic disruption whenever the A14 faces problems.
