Calls for investigation into A14 flooding at Newmarket

Drivers have faced lane closures and long delays on the eastbound carriageway, between junction 37 for Newmarket and junction 39 near Kentford, since Tuesday, February 20. 

It had initially cleared, but disruption returned on Thursday, February 22, following more heavy rainfall. 

Flooding has caused problems for more than a week (Image: National Highways)

However, a full closure was implemented on Wednesday evening (February 28) after the carriageway flooded once more. 

Although lane three reopened by Thursday afternoon (February 29), National Highways said it could close again this week with more rain forecast.

Despite 300,000 litres of water being removed since the flooding on Wednesday, drivers are urged to avoid the area for the remainder of the week. 

Lane three has reopened, but could shut again (Image: National Highways)

Three gulley suckers and two are currently working in tandem at the site, and a National Highways spokesman said they are seeking additional resources.

Simon Amor, head of scheme Delivery at National Highways said:  “We apologise for the inconvenience caused to local communities.

"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.” 

Councillor Roger Dicker (Image: West Suffolk Council)

“Lane three is now re-open, but there's a chance we might need to close it again if heavy rain is expected.” 

The disruption has prompted calls for an investigation from a local councillor. 

Councillor Roger Dicker, who represents Kentford and Moulton at West Suffolk Council and also runs the Kentford village stores, said customers had spoken of the delays they have faced.

The road was shut on Wednesday evening after flooding increased (Image: National Highways)

He said: "All I am getting from customers is what I am hearing is the traffic queues heading to that.

"It is just one thing after another. It just affects everyone in this area.

"There does need to be some investigation into why this is happening." 

West Suffolk MP Matt Hancock called the situation completely unacceptable.

West Suffolk MP Matt Hancock described the situation as "completely unacceptable", and is calling for a better alternative route. 

"The situation on the A14 is completely unacceptable and I understand the frustration felt by motorists, given the length of delays," he said.

"The superb upgrade to the A14 missed out the Newmarket junction, and now motorists are paying the price. We need to upgrade the whole A142 junction, and even more urgently we need a better alternative route so traffic is no longer diverted down Newmarket High Street." 

The former health secretary added he would work with relative agencies to find the source of the problem and get the road reopened fully.