Busy Section of M4 Motorway in Wales to Close for Full Weekend Due to Bridge Demolition
One of the busiest stretches of the M4 motorway is set to shut down for an entire weekend to facilitate the safe demolition of a bridge. National Highways has issued a warning regarding significant disruption and noise levels expected during the demolition process. The bridge, constructed in 1966, is a concrete post-tensioned structure, where considerations for future maintenance were not prioritised at the time of its design.
Following structural investigations in July 2023 that revealed deterioration and cracking on the southeast underside of the bridge, the decision was made to proceed with its demolition. Junctions 18 and 19 of the M4 will be closed in both directions from the evening of Friday, March 21, until the morning of Monday, March 24. This closure is expected to result in considerable disruption, impacting commuters and locals alike in the area.
In a statement released by National Highways, they stated, “We’ll close the M4 in both directions between junctions 18 (for Bath) and 19 (for the M32). The closure will start at 7 pm Friday, March 21, and we’ll lift it by 6 am Monday, March 24. The demolition will be noisy, but we’ll try to minimise disturbance where possible.”
The closure of this section of the M4, known for being one of the busiest motorway routes in the southwest region, is anticipated to cause significant disruptions to traffic flow. National Highways urges drivers to avoid this area if possible during the demolition period and to plan for additional travel time if driving through the Bristol vicinity using alternative routes as necessary.
To ensure public safety during the demolition process, an exclusion zone will be established around the bridge. Spectators are advised against attempting to access the work site, with limited safe viewing areas available nearby. In preparation for the demolition, the A432 Badminton Road bridge will be closed to pedestrians and cyclists, with alternative routes identified for their use.
Furthermore, the Cuckoo Lane junction on the A432 Badminton Road will also be closed to all traffic throughout the weekend of the demolition. These temporary closures are essential to maintain safety protocols and facilitate the swift progress of the demolition project. National Highways also mentions the possibility of additional closures if the work cannot be completed within the scheduled weekend timeframe.
Following the bridge demolition, work will commence on building a new structure in its place. This future construction phase will necessitate further closures of the M4 later in the year as part of the ongoing project. Drivers and local residents are encouraged to stay informed about updates regarding these road closures and to plan their journeys accordingly to minimise inconvenience.
As developments unfold regarding the bridge demolition and subsequent construction activities, the public is advised to stay attuned to official announcements from National Highways regarding any further disruptions or closures along this vital transportation route. The coordinated efforts aim to ensure the safety of all individuals involved in the project and to mitigate the impact on commuters and surrounding communities during this critical infrastructure undertaking.