Two further emergency closures of the A12 in Suffolk, starting tonight (Wednesday), have been announced to enable gas engineers to replace half a mile of pipeline.

The southbound A12 Grove Road at the junction of the B1079 at Woodbridge will be closed overnight from 8pm until 6am.

Then on Saturday (December 16), there will be a full closure of the A12 Grove Road at Woodbridge.

READ MORE: A12 closure in Suffolk caused by effect of wind on gas works

The work is being carried out by gas company Cadent Gas to ensure that gas is able to continue flowing safely into buildings as the existing ageing mains are showing signs of corrosion.

The gas supply to homes and businesses will be unaffected by the work, while diversion routes will be set up for traffic during the closure of sections of the road.

A series of roadworks have already been implemented, including the closure of the A12 close to the Dobbies Garden Centre roundabout on Monday and Tuesday.

READ MORE: Woodbridge news

The carriageway has been narrowed to allow for two-way traffic, which started on November 13 and is expected to finish on December 22, while the right-hand lane of the southbound A12 is closed until December 22.

A pathway at the Dobbies roundabout is also closed until December 22.

The road management measures have been put in place because an 800m length of the A12 has had to be dug up to access the mains.

In November, the EADT reported how the Cadent team had to put a temporary road closure in place after high winds disrupted their preparations for the gas mains work.

Motorists complained about a lack of warning about the closure and a build-up of traffic in residential roads around Woodbridge.

READ MORE: Suffolk news

A Cadent Gas spokesperson said: "We would like to thank customers in advance for their patience and we apologise for any inconvenience experienced as we complete this important work. 

"Despite the large project taking place, we plan for the gas supply to remain uninterrupted to homes and businesses in the area."