Police warned of ‘serious disruption throughout the day’ as protesters target motorways in a demonstration over high fuel prices
The Prince of Wales bridge was closed in both directions as planned fuel protests were underway. The protest got underway at around 7.20am with traffic coming to a standstill by 8.30am.
The protest are against the current soaring fuel prices and has been centered around the bridge, which has been blocked in both directions.
Some people have even been spotted playing a game of football on an empty carriageway.
Just before 8am, Avon and Somerset Police said; “There are currently delays westbound on the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge with traffic moving slowly. The bridge remains open in both directions.”
Chief Superintendent Tom Harding of Gwent police stated yesterday to work from home where possible and avoid the area between 7am and 7pm, with protestors planning to block parts of the road between M4 Magor services, junction 23A eastbound, and Junction 20 of the M4 between those hours.
Read more:
M4 Severn Bridge protest
Murderers of 5 yearold Logan Mwangi sentenced
Which kitchen appliance is costing you the most?
Under 16’s may see ban on heavily caffeinated products
13 year-old boy found dead in the river Taff named
Blackmailed businessman Darryl Kavanagh from Cardiff speaks out
Officers from both Gwent Police and Avon and Somerset Police are in attendance at the protest to ensure it is carried out in line with the law. Plans are also being made with emergency and critical services to reduce disruption, and Bristol Airport has issued a warning urging travelers to allow extra time if heading to or from the airport.
FairFuelUK founder Howard Cox. While he said his organisation is not involved in the action, he is “fully supportive” of the demonstrations so long as they are conducted legally.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak has said he will carefully consider calls for a “more substantial” fuel duty cut after the 5p per litre reduction implemented in March failed to halt price rises.
Gwent Police warned:
“We are aware of driving offences being committed during the planned protest on the M4,” a spokesman said. “We are committed to increasing the safety of all road users in Gwent and beyond We urge all motorists to drive carefully, responsibly and within the limits of the law.”