Orwell Bridge NOW CLOSED due to high winds
The Orwell Bridge will be closing for four hours this afternoon Picture: CHARLOTTE BOND - Credit: Charlotte Bond
The Orwell Bridge is now closed, Highways England have confirmed.
Traffic has been building in Ipswich town centre as a result of the Orwell Bridge's closure Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN - Credit: SARAH LUCY BROWN
Highways England suggested earlier today that it may have to close the bridge for a time because of the wind but has now confirmed it will put a full closure in place.
In a statement on Twitter Highways England said: “Wind speeds have increased to the extent that a full closure of the Orwell Bridge will be necessary.
“We anticipate this to be between 12.00 and 16.00.”
Diversions are now in place.
MORE: Orwell Bridge reopens following closure
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Those wishing to continue journeys eastbound should follow the solid triangle diversion symbol, leaving the A14 at J55 and following the A1214 through Ipswich to the Woodbridge Road roundabout.
At the roundabout take the second exit and follow the A1189 to Felixstowe Road. At the roundabout with the A1156 go straight over and travel along the A1156 Felixstowe Road to re-join the A14 at J58.
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Those wishing to travel westbound should follow the solid circle and follow the above diversion in reverse.
Forecaster Adam Dury from Weatherquest, based in Norwich, said: “Across the region there are gusts of between 40 and 45mph, and round the coast they may be close to 50mph.
“The winds will be highest between now and around 3pm, and then ease down after that. There is the chance of a light shower, but most areas will be dry.”
Temperatures are also becoming much colder after the warm weekend, with a chance of frost in some parts of the area.
Mr Dury said: “It will feel quite cold today, with highs of only around 10 to 11 Celsius, but it will feel a bit warmer in the sunshine.
He added “Some parts of West Suffolk could have a frost tonight.”
The news comes only days after highways bosses behind plans for a 40mph trial on the bridge during high winds confirmed that the project is still on course for this winter, despite the coronavirus disruptions.
READ MORE: Will coronavirus delay Orwell Bridge wind closure trial?
