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164-tonne transformer to be moved through Ipswich on Sunday

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A massive transformer will be transported from Ipswich Docks to Yaxley on Sunday, causing road closures and traffic disruptions. The 71-metre-long vehicle carrying the load will depart at 6am.

Why it matters: The abnormal load will impact traffic and travel for Ipswich residents and those using the A140 and A14 on Sunday.

The big picture: This is the second attempt to move this transformer after a previous postponement. The operation involves coordination between multiple agencies to ensure safety and minimise disruption.

Key details:

  • The 164-tonne transformer is being moved for Conrad Energy and National Grid

  • The A140 will be closed for several hours from late morning

  • A temporary overbridge will be installed at Brockford

  • The A14 eastbound will face a rolling roadblock mid-morning

What to watch:

  • Departure from Ipswich Docks: Around 6am

  • A14 eastbound rolling roadblock: Approximately 10-10:30am

  • A140 closure: Expected 11am to 6pm (subject to change)

Road restrictions:

  • Parking and weight limit restrictions along the route

  • Suspension of double yellow lines

  • Closure of Derby Road, Tomline Road, and St Matthews Street subway in Ipswich

  • Parking restrictions on Old Norwich Road in Ipswich and Whitton as a contingency

Be smart: To minimize disruption, avoid the affected areas if possible. Depending on the abnormal load's position, small vehicles may be allowed to cross the A140 between A14 and A1120.

What they're saying: Councillor Paul West, Suffolk County Council's cabinet member for Ipswich, operational highways and flooding, said: "It is good news that Suffolk Highways has been able to facilitate the rescheduled abnormal load move. The team will continue to support future abnormal loads ensuring these are carried out safely and with minimal impact on Suffolk's residents."

The bottom line: Residents and travellers should plan ahead and avoid the A140 and A14 if possible on Sunday.

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Three more arrests in Billy McNicholl murder investigation

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Suffolk Constabulary's Major Investigation Team has made three new arrests following the murder of Billy McNicholl, bringing the total number of arrests to five.

Why it matters: The investigation into the death of 63-year-old William "Billy" McNicholl, who was found dead in a Hawthorn Drive property on 1 January, continues as police seek justice for the victim and his friends and family.

A Home Office post-mortem indicated McNicholl died from head injuries and a single stab wound.

William "Billy" McNicholl and his dog
William "Billy" McNicholl and his dog

The details: Three people were arrested on Tuesday 1 April – a 17-year-old boy, an 18-year-old man and a 41-year-old man – on suspicion of assisting an offender and being concerned in the supply of Class A and B drugs.

All three have been questioned at Martlesham Police Investigation Centre and subsequently bailed to return to police on 1 July.

What they're saying: Detective Inspector Mark Hughes said: "A large number of officers have been involved in the investigation and many people, including residents in the Hawthorn Drive area and surrounding streets, have either contacted us or have been spoken to by our officers. However, if anyone has any information that they are yet to share with police, I would ask them to do so, to help us find out what happened to Billy."

He added: "Our enquiry into his death and the work to bring those responsible to justice continues."

The bigger picture: On 22 January, a 17-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of murder. He has been bailed with conditions and is due to return to police on Tuesday, 22 April.

A woman in her 50s, previously arrested on suspicion of murder, has been told she will face no further action.

What's next: Crimestoppers is offering a reward of up to £20,000 for information given anonymously that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.

Phil Breckon, Regional Manager at Crimestoppers, said: "Our charity is offering a reward of up to £20,000 for information given exclusively to us that leads to the arrest, charge and conviction of anybody responsible for Billy's murder."

He added: "If you have information, however small, please speak up and tell Crimestoppers 100% anonymously. If you prefer not to talk to the police, you can tell us what you know, and we'll pass it on for you."

The reward will expire on 30 April 2025.

The bottom line: Police continue to appeal for anyone with information to contact them quoting reference 37/162/25, either via the Major Incident Public Reporting Portal, by calling 101, or by contacting Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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