Work has started near Ipswich railway station which will keep a busy road shut for several weeks.

Ipswich Star: Take a look at this weeks road works and road closures. Picture: EDMUND CROSTHWAITETake a look at this weeks road works and road closures. Picture: EDMUND CROSTHWAITE (Image: Archant)

Ranelagh Road between Ancaster Road and Princes Street is being closed for seven weeks from today.

Take a look at our video of the nearly 3km long diversion around the closure to see where the alternative route is.

The work, being carried out by Suffolk County Council highways teams, will see traffic lights, street lighting, road markings and crossings replaced.

There will also be work taking place around the station forecourt, while national Grid will be doing essential gas main works.

See our guide of how to beat the roadworks here.

During the works the following alternative routes are suggested:

• Between Ancaster Road and Burrell Road, a diversion is in place via Stoke Street; Belstead Road; Stone Lodge Lane; Birkfield Drive, Gippeswyk Avenue and Ancaster Road.

• From Princes Street or Commercial Road, motorists can head onto West End Road and continue to the junction with Handford Road. Turn left onto the B1075 Ranelagh Road, which will remain open as far as Ancaster Road. Those heading to Princes Street can use the same route reversed.

• For motorists coming in to and out of Ipswich via London Road, Handford Road offers the nearest alternative, while those coming to or from Belstead Road and Wherstead Road can reach the town centre via Stoke Bridge. Once in the town centre, Civic Drive and Grey Friars Road connects Handford Road with Stoke Bridge to bypass the worst of the traffic near the river.