David Ruffley has received a further update from the Highways Agency on correcting the subsidence on the A14 at Rougham.

In December 2008 the Highways Agency discovered that the subsidence problem lies with a drainage crossing trench, which is between 2.5 metres and 3.0 metres below carriageway level. There appears to be a 100-150mm deep void in the failing area.

David has been informed by Brian Pitkin, Route Performance Manager at the Highways Agency, that preparation work on the temporary solution is now well advanced. This will involve pumping grout into the voids under the A14 carriageway. This work will stabilise the situation and slow down any further sinking of the road surface until the scheme for the permanent repair is completed. Work to provide this temporary solution is to be carried out overnight, later this month.

Brian Pitkin has also told David that, following their extensive investigations to establish the nature and extent of the problem under the carriageway, a preliminary design for permanent repair is now being developed. No precise timescales for carrying out the permanent works are available yet but the Agency does expect that these will be carried out before the end of 2009.

David said: 'I am pleased that the Highways Agency is now making some positive progress to correct the subsidence problem on the A14 at Rougham.

'Although we will have to wait until later in the year for a permanent solution, I'm sure that motorists using the A14 through Rougham will be reassured to know that the voids under the carriageway will soon be filled to provide a temporary solution to the problem.

'The Highways Agency has promised me further updates and I will be holding them to this commitment.'