Upgrades to Orwell Bridge mean less congestion in the town
The bridge can now stay open more often in high winds.
Last updated 31st Mar 2021
More reliable journeys and less congestion in Ipswich town are expected after upgrades to Orwell Bridge.
Highways England have been working over the last two months to install new electric signage on the bridge that carries up to 60,000 vehicles over the River Orwell every day and is an essential route for many drivers heading to the International Port of Felixstowe.
The signage will show interchangeable speed limits, meaning a new 40mph driving speed limit will be shown when wind speeds are predicted to exceed 45mph up to 60mph meaning the bridge can safely stay open.
If winds of 60mph or more are predicted, then the bridge will still have to close due to the safety risk to motorists.
The £1.7million project was backed by the findings of a year-long aerodynamic study of the bridge by City University of London.
Martin Fellows, Highways England Regional Director, said:
"Orwell Bridge has vital importance not only for the people living and working in Ipswich, but also for the 4000 vehicles that go through the International Port of Felixstowe every day.
"Like other high bridges around the country, Orwell Bridge is very exposed and can be affected by high winds.
"These new upgrades mean that the bridge will be able to remain open more often, meaning more reliable journeys for drivers, local residents, businesses and hauliers on route to the port, and less congestion in town. However, it's vital that motorists respect the speed limits shown on the new electronic signs for their own safety and the safety of others."
Average speed cameras will also be in place on either side of the Bridge, with drivers who fail to comply being referred to Suffolk Police for prosecution.
Commenting on behalf of Suffolk Constabulary, Assistant Chief Constable Simon Megicks said:
"I am delighted that the work to upgrade the Orwell Bridge has been completed by Highways England, as any reduction in the number of bridge closures will make a significant difference to traffic in and around Ipswich. I'm sure the tangible benefits of these improvements will be obvious to everyone who lives or works in the area, the next time we experience wind speeds between 45-60mph."