Suffolk County Council has welcomed confirmation that the full road closure of Westerfield Road in Ipswich is to be slashed following a revised programme submitted by developers Bellway Homes.
The works, which are required as part of Bellway’s Westerfield Grove development, will now be reduced from 17 weeks to just eight weeks, having originally been scheduled as a 24 week full closure.
Suffolk County Council officers worked with Bellway to reduce the 24 weeks to 17 weeks by combining phases of work, extending working hours, and aligning utility works with highway improvements.
After further requests, Bellway has now revised its plans further, meaning the full road closure will only apply for eight weeks, with the remainder of the 17-week programme managed under temporary traffic lights.
Councillor Paul West, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Operational Highways, said: “I thank Bellway for meeting with us and engaging with the local community.
“I am very pleased that the duration of the works has been reduced, and I hope Bellway will maintain clear and consistent communication throughout the closure to ensure any concerns that arise are promptly addressed.”
Under the updated schedule:
- Weeks 1–3 (from 26 August): Partial closure with temporary traffic lights
- Weeks 3–11 (from 16 September): Full road closure (pedestrian access maintained)
- Weeks 11–17 (from 11 November): Partial closure resumes with traffic lights
One of the most significant changes under the new programme is the relocation of a proposed foul sewer.
The original plans proposed excavating through the centre of Westerfield Road to install a new sewer.
Suffolk County Council asked Bellway to explore alternative routing options within the development boundary.
Bellway reviewed the scheme and identified a revised route within the site, removing the need for extensive excavation in the highway and helping to significantly reduce disruption for residents.
Councillor West thanked Suffolk County Council’s Network Assurance team for their proactive approach in reducing disruption wherever possible.
“Our officers have worked tirelessly to reduce the scale and duration of these works,” he said.
“Their efforts in coordinating activity, extending working hours, and negotiating programme improvements were instrumental in getting the closure period down from 24 weeks to 17, paving the way for this latest improvement.”
