Drivers heading towards Bristol Airport and London are being cautioned about a significant full weekend closure on the M4 motorway, just over the Prince of Wales bridge. The closure is set to impact both directions between junctions 18 and 19 from 8.45pm on Friday to 6am on Monday. This closure is necessary as contractors undertake work on the A432 Badminton Road Bridge, involving the digging of a trench under the motorway. This work will facilitate the diversion of utilities currently housed within the bridge before its planned demolition next year.
National Highways route manager, Sean Walsh, advised travellers to avoid the area if possible. For those who must travel through the affected section, allowing extra time for the journey via signed diversion routes is recommended, as delays are expected. The closure is anticipated to cause substantial disruption in the area and Bristol Airport passengers are advised to allocate additional travel time.
Constructed in 1966, the Badminton Road bridge was closed to traffic following a structural assessment in July 2023 which revealed significant deterioration and cracking. The decision was subsequently made to replace the bridge, with work scheduled for completion in spring 2026. Should this weekend’s work not be completed as planned, the M4 junction 18 to 19 will face another closure from 7pm on Friday, 25 October to 6am on Monday, 28 October.
National Highways emphasised that the closure is expected to impact one of the busiest motorway sections in the southwest and local diversion routes are likely to be congested. The area will be closely monitored to minimise inconvenience, acknowledging that some work necessitates closures for safety reasons.
In conclusion, the M4 full weekend closure highlights the ongoing infrastructure maintenance in the region and the importance of planning alternative routes for affected travellers. Stay updated on further developments and travel advisories to ensure a smooth journey during this period of roadworks.