Works began on the A14 in Ipswich on Monday, June 16 and were expected to run for seven weeks into August.

The planned work included the replacement of two worn joints on the bridge with a series of overnight closures and contraflow systems in place for the duration of the repairs.

During Saturday evening, National Highways will begin the process of removing the contraflow and prepare the road for a full reopening by the end of the week.

READ MORE: WATCH: Behind-the-scenes look at Orwell Bridge repair works

Martin Fellows, National Highways director of the East region, said: “Our work has progressed very well and ahead of schedule.

“Last week, we reached an important milestone, with the successful installation of the new bridge expansion joints on the westbound carriageway. 

“The new joints have been secured in place and final resurfacing and other preparations to return traffic to the westbound carriageway are currently underway.

“It is very much weather dependent, but we aim to remove the contraflow in the next few days and fully open the bridge to traffic by the end of next week.”

The works caused delays on the A14 and in Ipswich (Image: Lucy Taylor) The project has caused traffic woes on the A14 and in Ipswich, with the major road often gridlocked during rush hour. 

Businesses in Ipswich voiced their anger over the roadworks, while companies in Felixstowe reported a decline in footfall since the works began.

What work will be done this week?

• Saturday, July 19 – the A14 westbound carriageway will be closed overnight from 8pm and 6am between junctions 58 and 56
• Sunday, July 20, until Tuesday, July 22 – overnight closures in the eastbound direction between junctions 55 and 57. A single lane closure will also be in place on the westbound carriageway
• Wednesday, July 23, until Friday, July 25 – overnight single lane closures in both directions to complete the finishing works and remove the remaining traffic management

National Highway also expects to carry out further work on the footway and bridge parapet after the works are completed, which may require additional lane closures.