A week-long 40mph speed limit will be in place on the A14 at Orwell Bridge ahead of repairs to the bridge.

The speed limit, which was introduced on Friday afternoon, will be in place all day every day on the westbound carriageway until the works are expected to be completed at 6am on Friday, December 6. 

This comes as two nights of lane closures will take place for the next phase of maintenance to the westbound bridge joints from 8pm to 6am over Wednesday night.

READ MORE: National Highways announce next phase of Orwell Bridge works

National Highways head of planning and development Steven Thulborn said: “We recognise the importance of the Orwell Bridge and understand the impact any reduction in capacity can have for residents and the local economy who rely on this iconic and important piece of road infrastructure.

“We have introduced a temporary 40mph speed limit on the westbound carriageway and will be erecting scaffolding ahead of next week’s bridge joint works. We always try to limit closures or speed restrictions on the bridge and only implement them for safety reasons.  

“Our work here is vital for the long-term operation of the bridge, and I would like to thank drivers for their patience and understanding.”