Why it matters: The closure affects a key route for local residents, with the official diversion requiring drivers to take huge detours via Woodbridge, Kesgrave and Martlesham.
The details: Bellway Homes has notified residents that highway improvement works are scheduled to start 20 August and run to 16 December. The project includes carriageway reconstruction, resurfacing, new pedestrian and cycle signalised crossings and utilities works.
During the closure, Westerfield Road will be closed to south bound through traffic from Lower Road/Church Lane, with resident and business access maintained up to number 189 Westerfield Road, Chelsworth Avenue and Brownrigg Road.
The company will work six days a week with extended working hours to keep disruption to a minimum and coordinate with all parties and utilities companies involved to ensure completion under a single road closure.
The diversion route: The official diversion requires drivers to continue east along Colchester Road then head towards Woodbridge through Kesgrave and Martlesham, then towards Melton, turning left at the Dobbies roundabout and going through Grundsburgh and Culpho before heading back along Westerfield Road.
What they're saying: One local resident described the proposed diversion as "ridiculous," arguing that residents "are having to put up with the congestion and traffic chaos of not having a Northern Bypass to deal with the bridge closure."
They added: "This really is stupid and we should call it for what it is."
Alternative options: Local residents familiar with the area can use Henley Road and turn right, or go along Tuddenham Road and turn left. Both routes should be significantly quicker than the official diversion route.
What's next: Emergency contact details will be displayed on notice boards and a notification session will be held at The Railway Inn function room on Tuesday, 22 July from 15:00 to 18:00.
The bottom line: While the highway improvements aim to enhance safety and infrastructure, the lengthy official diversion route has sparked criticism from residents who feel the impact on local traffic has not been adequately considered.
