Joint repairs on the Orwell Bridge to begin in June

Essential work to replace joints on a major bridge will now start this summer after MPs raised concerns about their condition.

Maintenance on two westbound joints on the Orwell Bridge, on the A14 near Ipswich, was originally set to begin before April 2025.

National Highways had originally said repairs would begin in 2027 but accelerated the work to be carried out over the course of seven weeks - starting in June.

"We need to remove and replace two bridge expansion joints on the westbound carriageway," said a spokesperson for National Highways.

"This will keep the bridge working for many years to come," the authority added.

More than 60,000 vehicles cross the 1km (0.6 mile) bridge - a key link to the Port of Felixstowe - every single day.

Jack Abbott, Labour MP for Ipswich, wrote to Suffolk County Council and National Highways on Tuesday to ask if all non-emergency works in Ipswich could be cancelled during the partial closure of the bridge.

He said: "The repairs to an ageing Orwell Bridge are necessary and unavoidable, and the proposals represent the least worst option available."

Mr Abbott added that the maintenance would "cause huge disruptions" for residents and businesses in and near Ipswich.

The BBC has approached Suffolk County Council and National Highways for comment.

James Cartlidge, Conservative MP for Suffolk South, asked for confirmation of a timeline for the works last year.

A spokesperson for the Department of Transport confirmed it had been accelerated and would begin "within the current financial year".

Contraflow roadworks, diversions and speed restrictions are set to be put in place during the essential work, National Highways confirmed.

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