Congestion warning ahead of M4 weekend closure

The M4 will be closed in both directions between junctions 18 and 19 from 19:00 BST on Friday to 06:00 BST on Monday

Drivers using the M4 are being encouraged to plan ahead due to a full weekend closure.

The M4 will be closed in both directions between junctions 18 and 19 from 19:00 BST on Friday to 06:00 BST on Monday, while contractors dig a trench under the motorway as part of the work on the A432 Badminton Road Bridge.

The work will allow utilities, currently housed within the bridge, to be diverted before the structure is demolished next year.

National Highways route manager Sean Walsh said: "Our message for anyone who plans to travel on the M4 around Bristol is to avoid the area if you can."

'Expect delays'

He added: "If that's not possible, allow yourself plenty of extra time to complete your journey via our signed diversion routes and expect delays."

National Highways said the closure is likely to cause substantial disruption.

Constructed in 1966, the Badminton Road bridge was closed to traffic after a structural investigation in July 2023 found an accelerated deterioration and cracking to the southeast underside of the structure.

It was later decided the quickest and most economical approach was to demolish and replace the bridge.

Work on the bridge is scheduled for completion in spring 2026.