A14 traffic: complete eastbound closure planned for tonight

Drivers are being warned that the eastbound carriageway of the A14 near Newmarket will be completely closed to deal with an ongoing flooding problem tonight (Friday, March 1).

The closure will run from 9pm to 5am on the A14 eastbound between junction 37 (Newmarket) and junction 38 (Red Lodge).

National Highways has been working at the scene since February 22 to clear the flooding, but two lanes still remain closed. The closure tonight will allow work aimed at reducing the flooding, and give the team an opportunity to carry out investigative work and assess the condition of the carriageway.

A statement from National Highways said: “At one point overnight, there were 11 tankers on the scene working to remove the water. There (are) an excessive ground water levels, which are not naturally draining away, (which) combined with the rain, contribute to a challenging resolution.

“Up until this morning (Friday), the team would estimate the removal of more than 7 million litres of water, equivalent to nearly three Olympic-size swimming pools.”

The ongoing flooding has caused huge tailbacks of up to seven miles at some points and villages have seen heavy traffic redirected onto local roads.

Drivers should follow the official diversion route and National Highways urge drivers to avoid the area.

Simon Amor, Head of Scheme Delivery said: “We apologise for the inconvenience caused to local communities. We believe that the flooding is due to excessively high ground water in the area, and unfortunately, it's not something we can repair. The team is making every effort to remove the standing water in all lanes. However, they are facing challenges as the water continues to return after removal. We urge drivers to avoid the area, if possible.”

Further information is available from National Highways by visiting www.trafficengland.com website.