The Highways Agency has announced a review into the number of suicides at the Orwell Bridge.

The review comes after the fortieth suicide in the bridge’s 32 year history took place in April. It is expected to be completed within a year.

MPs Therese Coffey and Ben Gummer welcomed the announcement. Both MPs sent a joint letter to the regional director of the Highways Agency calling for action to prevent more deaths.

Ms Coffey said: “Every suicide is a real tragedy, though not always avoidable, and I’m pleased the Highways Agency is looking into ways it can help prevent this.

“As the bridge is situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and in area of Special Scientific Interest, I recognise the limitations on physical barriers they could install but I urge them to consider other solutions quickly.

“The review is promised by March 2015, but it would be assuring if this were brought forward.

Mr Gummer said: “I am pleased that we shall have a review. I hope that the Highways Agency will be able to conclude it before March next year, given the pressing need to do something to stop the sad repetition of tragedies involving the bridge.”

The review is scheduled for completion by the end of March 2015.