Potter’s Bridge, on the B1127, near Southwold, maintenance work under way after roadmap agreed
Maintenance work is under way at a flood-prone road, after a roadmap to maintain it was agreed between agencies last month.
East Suffolk Council (ESC) had vehicles out this morning to sweep the B1127 at Potter’s Bridge, near Southwold, in preparation for Suffolk Highways to clear drains and grips at the road.
When Potter’s Bridge floods, it impedes access in and out of Southwold, as well as to the nearest hospital, James Paget.
David Beavan, deputy leader of East Suffolk Council, said: “It’s is all part of the plan. The county council ask us to sweep the road before they clear the drains.
“This is encouraging, that we’re working together. It’s what we wanted people to do, district working with the county council.
“I expect they (Highways) will cooperate.”
Cllr Beavan also reiterated the need for punctual work at the road to ensure wildlife, including nesting bitterns, in the Easton Broad are well protected from alternating water levels.
A spokesperson for Highways said a gully cleansing had recently been carried out at the B1127, and another is due after recent rain and debris build up has re-blocked them.
Clearing the drains is part of Highways’ short term commitments to the road, as well as monthly checks on the road throughout winter months.
The outfall at Potter’s Bridge is due to be cleared, and an EA spokesperson said: “The landowner has kindly volunteered to clear the outfall and we expect this will be completed later this week.
“This will reduce water levels on Eastern Broad for the benefit of both wildlife and road users.
In the medium term, it has been suggested real time depth monitors be installed on the B1127 to advise road users whether the bridge is passable, to protect smaller cars from being damaged or stranded. Farmers will also be encouraged to extract excess rainfall further up the Wren catchment.