This will see the council refresh the data around different potential options to relive pressure on the road network and Orwell Bridge.
Using the latest traffic modelling, updated forecasts, incident data, environmental constraints and cost estimates, the PSOBC will examine six traffic options.
They are:
- A replacement or alternative crossing of the River Orwell, without determining at this stage whether this would be a bridge or tunnel
- A replacement or alternative crossing with a direct A12 link south of the A14/A12 Copdock junction
- A northern by-pass route for Ipswich
- An Upper Orwell-style town centre crossing in Ipswich
- A resilience package, including local junction improvements, urban traffic management, incident management and operational measures
- Assess how many people must switch to public transport or alternative travel to reduce traffic pressure
Continuing to call on the government for improvements at the Ely and Haughley rail junctions - capable of removing up to 98,000 lorry journeys a year – would form an important part of any strategy.
Freight movements linked to Port of Felixstowe are forecast to grow, while major developments such as Sizewell C will add further demand on the road network.
But the ageing Orwell bridge – opened in 1982 - will require increasingly significant maintenance, with two major sets of works anticipated between 2026 and 2031.
The Cabinet will be told that major infrastructure options could cost between £500 million and more than £1 billion and take seven to ten years or more to deliver, so government sponsorship and investment would be essential.
Preparing the Pre‑SOBC is expected to cost up to £300,000, funded from the Local Transport Grant already earmarked for resilience work.
If approved, work on the Pre‑SOBC is anticipated to take around six months, leading to an evidence and options report around spring 2027.
Subsequent stages could progress through the Department for Transport’s business‑case process toward potential construction from 2036, subject to Government gateways and funding.
Councillor Christopher Hudson, Suffolk County Council Cabinet member for Transport and Highways, said: “Resilience on the A14 corridor around Ipswich is not just a local concern, it is a matter of national importance.
“When the Orwell Bridge is closed there is huge disruption for residents, businesses and freight operators alike.
“By fully assessing the evidence we can develop a resilient and credible case for investment to present to the government, National Highways and regional partners.
“Moving too quickly to a single solution without that evidence would risk challenge and reduce confidence that all viable options had been properly considered.”
