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Orwell Bridge to close overnight for urgent repairs

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A full westbound carriageway closure on the Orwell Bridge will be in place for the next two evenings to repair a potential defect discovered during a routine inspection.

The big picture: The Orwell Bridge will undergo urgent repair work starting Tuesday evening. This follows a week-long single-lane closure after National Highways identified a potential issue.

Key details:

  • Full westbound carriageway closure between 9pm and 5am on Tuesday and Wednesday

  • The closure allows for the safe repair of the defect found during an inspection

  • Road expected to fully reopen by 5am on Thursday

  • A diversion route will be in place while the carriageway is closed

Why it matters: The overnight closures will impact late-night and early-morning travellers, potentially causing delays for commuters and freight traffic.

Don't forget: Drivers are also reminded of upcoming A14 closures:

  • A stretch of the A14 will be closed over some nights from junction 52 near Claydon to junction 55 at the Copdock Interchange until approximately mid-November

  • These closures will be in place between 8pm and 6am on weeknights

  • The work allows for a new asphalt surface to be applied

  • A 10-mile (16km) diversion route will be in place via the B1113, A1071, and A1214

What they're saying: Ipswich MP Jack Abbott had called on Suffolk County Council to abandon the roadworks during the repairs to the Orwell, but this looks to have fallen on deaf ears.

He stated, “While the bridge is partially closed, I have asked Suffolk County Council to cancel all non-essential roadworks in the town centre to ease the flow of traffic and prevent further jams."

The bottom line: Motorists should plan alternative routes or allow extra time for journeys during these closures, particularly for late-night or early-morning travel.

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

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Police appeal after golf ball attack damages historic Landguard Fort

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Over 40 golf balls were driven at Felixstowe's Landguard Fort, causing mortar damage to the historic structure's outer wall.

Why it matters: The damage constitutes an offence under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which protects historically significant sites.

Inside the Landguard Fort in Felixstowe
Inside the Landguard Fort in FelixstoweGetty Images

The details: Suffolk Police reported that the incident took place between 17:00 on Monday, 10 March and 09:00 on Tuesday, 11 March.

The golf balls were driven from a grass mound outside the fort on Point View Road, with some projectiles clearing the outer wall and landing in the inner parade area.

What's next: Officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about those responsible to come forward.

How to help: Contact Suffolk Police quoting crime reference 37/13803/25 via:

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

The bottom line: This act of vandalism has caused damage to one of Felixstowe's most important historic landmarks, which is protected by national legislation.

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

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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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