Work to improve transport links around Lowestoft's Bascule bridge is due to start next week - as part of plans make the town's port more accessible to business to create jobs.

The Suffolk County Council project to improve access out of Commercial Road on to the A12 and installing a pedestrian cycle crossing there is scheduled to start on Monday.

Once the work is finished by the end of March motorists will be ale to turn right from Commercial Road onto the A12, and as well as the cycle and pedestrian crossing, footpaths will be widened on the west side of Station Square.

The council says during the work there will be minor disruptions to traffic but during the day the two lane flow system on and by the bridge will be maintained.

However during the end part of the work there will be overnight road closures.

Graham Newman, Suffolk County Council's cabinet member for roads and transport, said: 'Improving the Commercial Road junction and exit arrangements will better assist Lowestoft Port in becoming more accessible, allow it to be maintained as a key employer within the town.

'This new arrangement will also increase the potential for development in the area, helping to stimulate the local economy.'

The works are largely in line with designs that were displayed at the public exhibition held in Lowestoft's railway station and library in October.

Road closures have been organised to tie-in with some planned maintenance work on the Bascule bridge which has been scheduled at the end of March.

The council was keen to stress that businesses will be open as usual and be able to receive deliveries throughout the scheme.

The council is funding the work through its capital transport fund.

Further information about the scheme will be available on the county council's website, www.suffolk.gov.uk

Anyone who has any questions regarding the works can ring Suffolk Highways on 0845 606 6171.

In early 2012 motorists heading to the Bascule bridge faced traffic disruption for six weeks thanks to £130,000 repair works on a sewer by Station Square.

And last year saw part of London Road South blocked off to traffic for 12 weeks from September after a sewer gave way.