Discussion on Papers 7–9

INTRODUCTION TO PAPER 9 BY L. M. ELLISS

It is arguable whether the western section of the Ipswich bypass should be classified as a major missing link. Although it may not perhaps be regarded as 'major1 in the national context, its absence was highly significant for the residents of Bramford and Sproughton and also for drivers (particularly of heavy goods vehicles) travelling between the Midlands, the North and the Haven ports.

It is not any longer 'missing', however, having been opened some four months early in October 1985, but a case study of the history of the scheme provides a good example of the reasons for some of the other gaps in our primary route network, in spite of apparent government determination to complete them.