Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will make an assessment of the potential impact of maintenance works on the Orwell Bridge being scheduled as part of Highways England’s Significant Structures Scheme on traffic flows in that area.

National Highways recognises the importance of the Orwell Bridge and the impact its closure will have for residents and the local economy. The planning for the replacement of the bridge’s bearings is currently at the preliminary design phase, part of which includes National Highways undertaking a series of studies to look at the impact of the works on the road users, as well as reviewing potential options for traffic management and their impact on the local community. This is in addition to environmental assessments and impact on traffic on the river if necessary.