The Orwell Bridge is to close from midnight because of the predicted high winds over the next few hours and into the early hours of tomorrow.

Highways England decided to shut the A14 route for safety reasons but were unable to say when it would reopen.

They said they will continue to monitor wind speeds closely and will reopen the bridge as soon as it is safe to do so.

But based on current forecasts they do not expect the bridge to re-open until tomorrow afternoon which is set to cause misery for motorists using the route.

The planned diversion is via the A1156, A1189 and A1214 through Ipswich.

Drivers planning to travel tomorrow are encouraged to plan their journey in advance and check the latest weather and traffic conditions.

Road users and residents affected by closures can visit the Highways England website at http://roads.highways.gov.uk/orwell-bridge/ and subscribe to alerts.

They said drivers should be aware of sudden gusts of wind and give high-sided vehicles, caravans, motorbikes and bicycles plenty of space.