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Orwell Bridge currently closed and not likely to reopen before morning rush hour

Orwell Bridge.

The Orwell Bridge is currently closed due to high winds from Storm Eleanor and is expected to stay shut through the morning rush hour.

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Highways England says it will continue to monitor wind speeds closely before making a decision about when to reopen the bridge, based on the safety of road users.

It is uncertain what time the bridge will reopen but it is likely to be closed during the peak morning travel time, which will cause significant traffic congestion in Ipswich.

A statement from Highways England said: “Once the Orwell Bridge is closed, the planned diversion route is via the A1156, A1189 and A1214 through Ipswich.

Driver warning: Due to high winds, the Orwell Bridge will be closed from 9pm tonight until tomorrow morning. Follow @HighwaysEAST for updates. #SuffolkRoads #OrwellBridge #StormEleanor — Suffolk Police (@SuffolkPolice) 2 January 2018

“Drivers planning to travel are encouraged to plan their journey in advance and check the latest weather and traffic conditions along the route. You can get the latest forecast from BBC weather, the Met Office, and local radio.

“Drivers making journeys across the region should be aware of sudden gusts of wind, and give high-sided vehicles, caravans, motorbikes and bicycles plenty of space.”

Pls note: there's a strong possibility that #A14 J56-J57 ( #Orwell Bridge) in #Suffolk will be closed from 9pm tonight (Tue 2nd Jan) for safety reasons, due to high winds. The bridge will reopen tomorrow; we'll let you know when this will be. Updates to follow later this evening — Highways England (@HighwaysEngland) 2 January 2018