MORE disruption is expected at Ipswich Road in Colchester, with weeks of lane closures coming into force from Monday.

Vital repairs are needed to Cowdray Bridge, over the railway line, with damage being identified during the controversial £6.5 million roadworks scheme.

The scheme, which is now complete, saw the two double roundabouts in Ipswich Road and Harwich Road converted into single roundabouts.

Here is what we know about the repair works:

Why are works needed?

The Cowdray Avenue bridge. Picture: Essex Highways

Cowdray Bridge. Picture: Essex Highways

During recent roadworks, engineers were strengthening the retaining wall to the south and west of the Ipswich Rd roundabout, when a crack was discovered in the base of one of the ornamental bridge columns, known as pilasters.

These pilasters are instantly recognisable to all Colchester residents.

Initial repairs were made, allowing one lane at the roundabout to remain open, however, further works are needed.

These will start on Monday and are expected to be complete by August 27.

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What works are taking place?

Ipswich Road new layout

The new layout at Ipswich Road

The first stage of works, which starts Monday, will see one lane closed at Ipswich Road roundabout between Ipswich Road south and Cowdray Avenue.

One lane will be open to traffic.

Essex Highways will look to minimise the impact and reduce the lane closure as soon as it is safe and practical to do so.

The lane could reopen by the end of July, if things move ahead as planned.

Working hours will generally be during the day, however the traffic management lane closures will be required to remain in place 24 hours a day.

Road users have been encouraged to drive carefully through and around the works at these times, observing road and lane closures and traffic lights as necessary.

What has the council said?

The Cowdray Avenue bridge. Picture: Essex Highways

Cowdray Bridge. Picture: Essex Highways

Lee Scott, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for Highways Maintenance and Sustainable Transport, said: “The safety of road users in Essex is of paramount importance and our utmost responsibility.

"This safety issue on the Cowdray Bridge has to be repaired as quickly as possible.

“I know this lane will be closed soon after work was completed on the Ipswich Road/Harwich Road junction. I absolutely understand these works may be an inconvenience, however they are essential, especially as the bridge runs over the main railway line.”

Where can I find more information?

Visit www.essex.gov.uk/majorschemes and access the dedicated Cowdray Bridge scheme.