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Speed limit and lane closures announced for Orwell Bridge

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A 40mph speed limit and overnight lane closures will be in place on the Orwell Bridge next week as National Highways continues maintenance work.

The details:

  • A 40mph speed limit was introduced Friday afternoon (29 November) and will remain in force on the westbound carriageway until 06:00 on Friday 6 December.

  • Lane closures will be in place overnight between 20:00 and 06:00 on Wednesday 4 and Thursday 5 December.

  • The restrictions only affect the westbound carriageway.

  • Works are part of the next phase of maintenance to the bridge joints.

The Orwell Bridge in Ipswich
A 40mph speed limit and overnight lane closures will be in place on the Orwell Bridge next weekRob AthertonGetty Images

Planning ahead: National Highways has scheduled the work to begin after Ipswich Town's home match against Crystal Palace on 3 December to avoid disrupting supporters.

What they're saying: "We understand the impact that any reduction in capacity on the Orwell Bridge can have to those who rely on this iconic and important piece of road infrastructure," said Steven Thulborn, National Highways head of planning and development. "Our work here is vital for the long-term operation of the bridge."

The background: These works follow maintenance carried out in September when a bridge joint was found in a "potentially unsafe condition," which led to heavy delays around Ipswich.

Bottom line: Drivers travelling westbound across the bridge are advised to allow extra time for their journeys while the restrictions are in place.

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Three more arrests in Billy McNicholl murder investigation

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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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