Orwell Bridge, on A14 outside Ipswich, set for overnight closures this week

Motorists have been alerted to a string of overnight closures on the Orwell Bridge this week.

National Highways will be conducting maintenance and survey work on the A14 outside Ipswich from tonight.

As a result, the route will be shut from 8pm to 6am for four nights this week.

Tonight and tomorrow (March 10 and 11), both lanes on the westbound route will be shut between junction 58 at Seven Hills Interchange and junction 56 at Wherstead Interchange.

One lane will be shut on the eastbound route between junctions 56 and 57.

On Wednesday and Thursday (March 12 and 13), there will be a single lane closure in both directions between junctions 57 and 56.

However, traffic will be allowed to flow freely on these last two dates.

A diversion will be in place while the road is shut.

Motorists should leave the A14 at junction 58 and travel along the A12 until the roundabout with Main Road, Kesgrave.

Drivers should then follow the A1214 (Main Road, Colchester Road, Valley Road, Yarmouth Road and London Road) through Ipswich before rejoining the A14 at Copdock Interchange.

A spokesman for National Highways said: “We understand the impact that any reduction in capacity on the Orwell Bridge can have on all road users.

“Our survey and maintenance works are vital to ensure the bridge remains safe and serviceable.

“We thank you for your patience and understanding while we do this work.

“All lanes will remain open during the daytime.”