Weekend Closure of M4 Near Bristol Due to Bridge Maintenance

Motorists using the M4 motorway near Bristol are being advised to prepare for significant travel disruptions due to a planned full closure of the highway. The closure will affect both directions between junctions 18 and 19, situated north of Bath. The shutdown is scheduled to commence at 20:45 BST on Friday and last until 06:00 BST on Monday, according to National Highways.

The closure is necessitated by maintenance activities on the A432 Badminton Road Bridge. During this period, contractors will excavate a trench beneath the motorway to facilitate the diversion of utilities currently housed within the bridge. The bridge itself is slated for demolition in the coming year as part of a long-term infrastructure upgrade.

Originally constructed in 1966, the Badminton Road Bridge was closed to traffic in July 2023 after a structural investigation revealed accelerated deterioration and cracks under the southeast side of the structure. National Highways had determined that the quickest and most cost-effective solution was to proceed with demolition and replacement of the bridge, with project completion expected by spring 2026.

Sean Walsh, the route manager for National Highways, stated, “Our message for anyone who plans to travel on the M4 around Bristol is to avoid the area if you can. If that’s not possible, allow yourself plenty of extra time to complete your journey via the signed diversion routes and expect delays.”

National Highways has highlighted that it is one of the busiest motorway sections in the southwest, frequently used by approximately 130,000 drivers. Despite efforts to minimize inconvenience, the closure is expected to cause substantial disruption. A signed diversion route will be available, although travelers are encouraged to plan journeys in advance and be prepared for longer travel times.