The works, which are due to begin on Monday 28 March 2022 and last approximately six weeks, have been planned in to repair a highway bank collapse due to erosion from the river. Currently temporary traffic signals are in place to keep vehicles off the area - avoiding further subsidence, and to ensure the safety of the travelling public.
There have been a number of complexities associated with the location; such as its proximity to the river and the potential for further erosion, the need for consent from the Environment Agency to work adjacent to the watercourse and the need to reposition an undermined telecoms pole. These complexities alongside resource issues related to COVID has resulted in a delay of repairs.
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A solution has now been agreed, which once complete will mean the road can fully reopen to traffic. The new bank will be made up of rock-filled gabion baskets laid to heights of two metres from the bottom of the watercourse, for approximately ten metres. There will also be an installation of erosion control matting to the watercourse and bank for approximately twenty metres, new drainage added to the road, reinforced kerb line, a new post and rail fence, and road repairs.
Councillor Paul West, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member responsible for Ipswich, Operational Highways and Flooding, said: "I want to thank Otley Parish Council and the local community for their patience whilst we organise for the new build and repair of the embankment collapse at Otley Bottom. These works have taken longer than usual to take place, so I apologise for the inconvenience this is causing local residents.
"The improvement works which have now been planned in will provide a brand new retaining feature which will repair the subsidence and protect the bank now and for years to come."
