Orwell bridge safety features explored by National Highways

The organisation that is responsible for major roads in England has stated that they are working closely with services in Suffolk to find a solution. 

It follows a number of police incidents that have resulted in the bridge being closed to the public. 

The Orwell Bridge has been shut frequently recently for a number of police incidents. (Image: Sonya Duncan)Head of Scheme Delivery at National Highways, Simon Amor said: "We take our responsibilities to support vulnerable people very seriously.

"We are working closely with public health bodies and emergency services in Suffolk and across our road network to address this sensitive and difficult issue.

"We are exploring options with our partners."

The bridge was closed due to a police incident on Monday and has shut frequently throughout the last few months for the same reason.

A multitude of residents have called for changes to be made to the Orwell Bridge to reduce the number of police incidents. 

One commentor on Facebook said: "Need to install safety barriers on both sides of the bridge!"

A meeting was held at the end of July by community leaders where the topic of preventing pedestrian access to the bridge was discussed. 

Ipswich MP Jack Abbott stated at a meeting with community leaders last month that changes need to be made to Orwell Bridge to prevent such incidents. (Image: Jack Abbott)Ipswich MP Jack Abbott previously said: "At our first meeting last November we discussed what steps could realistically be taken around pedestrian access to the bridge, given the huge disruption from such incidents.

"At Friday’s meeting, Suffolk County Council updated us on the options available. Following the meeting, and the latest data showing the significant number of pedestrian incidents, my view is that we have to now seriously consider properly restricting pedestrian access to the Bridge.”

Improvement works on the Orwell Bridge which began on June 16 included the replacement of two worn joints on the bridge. 

The works finished ahead of schedule after National Highways worked overnight to improve the gullies and relining.