Call to suspend A14 Orwell Bridge works for Ed Sheeran’s concerts at Portman Road stadium in Ipswich

Fears have been raised that roadworks on the Orwell Bridge could lead to ‘highways from hell’ unless they are suspended for Ed Sheeran’s upcoming Ipswich gigs.

Ipswich Taxis Alliance has called on National Highways to pause maintenance work on the A14 when the Framlingham-raised superstar plays at Portman Road stadium on July 11, 12 and 13.

The authority began repair work on the Orwell Bridge on Monday, which is set to last for seven weeks until August.

National Highways said it was working with partners, including the event’s organisers, to minimise disruption.

Meanwhile, Suffolk Highways was reviewing planned works in and around Ipswich ahead of the shows but confirmed none were scheduled for the town centre that weekend.

It has also engaged with National Highways regarding the works and any impacts they might have.

Shofik Ali, a spokesman for Ipswich Taxis Alliance, was concerned that traffic issues could be unbearable for the three sell-out gigs at Portman Road, echoing similar issues faced by attendees to Fabio Wardley’s at the stadium on June 7.

He said: “Fabio Wardley attracted huge crowds for the town but, if not properly managed, Ed Sheeran’s gigs could lead to absolute chaos on the roads.

“Roads are essential and the quicker you can get people out of town the better. Traffic will be an issue regardless of trains as you can’t force people onto them.

“Works such as those happening on the Orwell Bridge are for the benefit of all of us but closures can force people onto back lanes which could lead to highways from hell unless some thought is put into it. We’re calling on them to be suspended until these events are done.

“These events are huge for the town and we need to show Ipswich is the place to be, but we need to show people we can handle and host large occasions like this.”

A spokesperson for National Highways said: “Safety is always our priority, and this maintenance work is essential in helping to ensure the long-term safe operation of the bridge.

“We understand the impact these roadworks will have on motorists and are working closely with partners, including the concert organisers, to minimise disruption as much as possible.”

Suffolk Highways warned that emergency or unplanned work may still take place over the concert weekend.

A Suffolk Highways spokesperson said: “We recognise the scale of the Ed Sheeran concerts and the significant increase in visitors they will bring to Ipswich.

“We’re working closely with partners, including National Highways, Ipswich Town Football Club and Ipswich Borough Council to minimise disruption and keep the town moving.”