Vital bridge joints on A14 Orwell Bridge in Suffolk to be replaced this summer
National Highways will install a contraflow system on the A14 Orwell Bridge in Suffolk from June so it can carry out major maintenance work without closing the route
Last updated 6th May 2025
Two bridge joints on the westbound side of the A14 Orwell Bridge will be replaced this summer, with work expected to finish in August.
More than 60,000 vehicles cross the River Orwell every day using the bridge, and National Highways has said a contraflow will allow traffic to continue moving in both directions while work is under way.
The bridge joints were installed in 1998 and are now coming to the end of their working life. Each joint weighs around 7.5 tonnes and will be carefully removed and replaced with new ones designed to last for 50 years.
Martin Fellows, regional director for National Highways in the East of England, 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.”
He said engineers had looked at a range of ways to carry out the work and had decided the contraflow was “the least disruptive for road users, local communities, businesses and others who depend on the bridge on a daily basis.”
“We are setting out details of the work now, so people and businesses can plan ahead,” he added.
A contraflow system means one lane of traffic will run in each direction on the eastbound side of the bridge, while work takes place on the westbound side.
Bridge joints are essential to allow the structure to expand and move with changes in temperature, traffic pressure, and other factors. They prevent damage and help the bridge stay in good condition.
National Highways is also developing a plan to replace two joints on the eastbound side of the bridge in the future.
Any full closures of the bridge will take place overnight and will be kept to a minimum. The work is also being planned to avoid clashing with major local events, such as football matches and the Suffolk Show.
A confirmed start date is expected to be announced in the coming weeks.