BRITAIN'S biggest container port was closed this morning as high winds buffeted the terminal.Officials at Felixstowe said both Landguard and Trinity terminals had been shut with winds over 35 mph hitting the coast.
BRITAIN'S biggest container port was closed today causing traffic chaos for hundreds of motorists.
Officials at Felixstowe closed both Landguard and Trinity terminals at the container port in Felixstowe, after high winds of up to 35 mph threatened to compromise health and safety at the port.
High-rise quayside cranes were unable to operate for safety reasons and traffic is currently at a stand still on the A14 towards Felixstowe for several miles.
Motorist, John Fletcher, of Elizabeth Way, Felixstowe, said: “It's going back for two miles and nothing is moving.
“Lorry drivers are getting out of there cabs and walking up and down the road but ordinary people who don't need to go to the port can't get through to Felixstowe and this is a joke because we can't go about our normal business.”
A spokeswoman for Suffolk police said: “The process of closing the terminals in high winds is regarded as best practise and it's what happens in Kent and Dover.
“We try to keep traffic moving but at the end of the day its safety that's most important.
“Motorists can help by being patient and avoiding the area if possible.”
It is hoped the port will re-open later today.
See this site later for more information.
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