A five-month closure for bridge replacement work has been hit with delays after an issue with the construction materials was discovered. 

Work began on the A1088 Bridge Farm in Stowlangtoft, near Bury St Edmunds, on Monday, July 22. 

The route is closed between the junction with The Street in the village and Sandy Lane in Grimstone End. 

Originally the work was expected to end on Friday, December 20, but an update from Suffolk Highways says it is now experiencing delays. 

READ MORE: Carriageway removed as part of ongoing bridge replacement works

A spokesman for Suffolk Highways said: "In the last few days we have identified some issues with the concrete piles which have been installed. 

"We are currently investigating and discussing these issues with the company who supplied the concrete, as well as other key stakeholders, to assess the impact of these issues and determine the best course of action to resolve them."

The bridge replacement has been paused and is likely to have an impact on the completion date. 

Due to the nature of the work, it is also unsafe to reopen the road while the work is paused. 

READ MORE: Temporary solution being investigated at closed historic bridge

A 20 mile diversion along the A1088, A14 and A143 will remain in place.

The spokesman continued: "We sincerely apologise for the delay in the bridge replacement works and are conscious of the impact this will have on local communities. 

"Please be reassured that we are continuing to work towards a solution to minimise the overall duration of the works, so that the A1088 can be re-opened as soon as it is safe to do so."