Drivers have been warned of major roadworks set to take place on the A14 Orwell Bridge in Suffolk, affecting more than 60,000 vehicles.
As part of the essential maintenance project, National Highways explained it will implement a contraflow system, which will be in place until the project is completed in August.
Under the scheme, traffic will share the eastbound carriageway during the work, with one lane operating in each direction.
The scheme involves replacing two joints on the westbound side of the bridge that were installed in 1998 and are now reaching the end of their serviceable life.
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The repair project is expected to be completed in August
NATIONAL HIGHWAYS
National Highways has planned the works to ensure the bridge remains open throughout the project, hoping to minimise disruption to the thousands of commuters who rely on this key route.
The need for new measures follows reports which found that the current joints, which were installed in 1998, have reached the end of their operational life, requiring replacement to ensure the bridge's continued functionality.
Bridge joints are critical components that allow for movement and expansion of the structure due to temperature changes, shrinkage and traffic loads, National Highways shared.
They provide flexible connections between bridge sections to prevent damage. The new joints have been designed to last for 50 years, eliminating the need for frequent maintenance closures.
The replacement work requires careful extraction of the old joints, which weigh approximately 7.5 tonnes each, making it a delicate operation which requires working access to the structure.
Martin Fellows, National Highways Regional Director for the East, said: "Safety is always our top priority, and so this maintenance work is vital in helping to ensure the long-term safe operation of the bridge.
"We understand the impact that any reduction in capacity on the Orwell Bridge can have on those who rely on this iconic and important piece of road infrastructure.
"The new joints are designed to last for 50 years, and completing this work now will help avoid the prospect of future closures being needed at short notice."
The contraflow system was chosen after consultation with Suffolk County Council, police and other stakeholders as "the least disruptive for road users, local communities, businesses and others who depend on the bridge on a daily basis."
While the immediate focus is on replacing the westbound joints, National Highways is also developing plans to replace two eastbound joints in the near future.
Any full bridge closures will be limited and conducted overnight when traffic volumes are lower, the agency said.
Further details about the project, including a confirmed start date, will be communicated by National Highways in the coming weeks.
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Lanes of the A14 will be closed while the repair works get underway
GETTYTo avoid delays, drivers have been advised to plan their journeys accordingly during the summer months when the contraflow system will be in operation.
