Roadworks on M5 between Bristol and Gloucester to last until May

A programme of road improvements on the M5 between Bristol and Gloucester begins on Monday and will last until May.

The work will be carried out between junctions 11a and 12 and junctions 13 to 14 and a 50 mph speed limit will be in place.

It will include bridge repairs and installing concrete barriers along the central reservation.

Both the hard shoulder and one lane will be closed until Easter.

The restrictions will then be lifted for the holiday period.

The Highways Agency is replacing the current steel barriers with large concrete blocks which prevent vehicles from crashing through the barrier to the other carriageway and are less likely to require repairs after accidents.

The programme starts with structural repairs to Coaley Cambridge Bridge between junctions 13 and 14 and Wheatridge Bridge between junctions 11a and 12.

Dave Sledge from the Highways Agency said: "This is a very full programme of work but with careful planning we have been able to undertake a number of schemes at the same time which will significantly reduce disruption.

"However I would advise people to plan their journeys and allow extra time."

The work also includes replacing a section of embankment and vegetation clearance.