Ipswich man Alex Baldry launches tool tracking disruptions and crashes on A14 Orwell Bridge

A man from Ipswich is on a mission to make the lives of A14 commuters easier with the creation of a new web tool.

Freelance web developer Alex Baldry, 22, said he launched OrwellBridgeStatus.com out of necessity and a sense of community spirit.

Frequent delays and crashes on the Orwell Bridge can cause traffic chaos for miles and gridlock nearby towns.

Alex identified a need for a tool that could be accessed quickly, which could allow commuters to plan their journeys ahead.

He wanted to do his bit to remedy the ‘common annoyance’ such disruptions can cause.

The website makes use of various traffic monitoring application programming interfaces (APIs) to deliver real-time updates and is designed to be both intuitive and easy to use.

Alex hoped the tool would become a regular part of commuters’ daily lives.

He said: “I hope the tool will greatly reduce the inconvenience caused by traffic delays and road closures.

“It provides information that could help commuters make smarter travel decisions and could potentially ease congestion during busy periods.”

The website currently only monitors disruption on the Orwell Bridge, but Alex said he was open to expanding features based on user feedback, which could see it cover other key routes in the region.

Outside of his work, Alex is a keen follower of motorsports and aviation.

He created an app which provides schedules and weather insights for Formula One, Two and Three races.

“My journey into web development began in secondary school and intensified during the pandemic, allowing me to deepen my skills and take on more projects,” Alex said.

“My work gives me the flexibility to tackle various projects that catch my interest.”