By Eniola Amadu
A section of the M4 motorway will be closed in both directions later this month to allow construction work on a new bridge, National Highways has announced.
The closure, originally scheduled to begin on 13 October, will now take place from 19:00 BST on 24 October until 06:00 BST on 27 October. It will affect the stretch between junctions 18 (Bath) and 19 (M32).
The shutdown is required for the installation of beams forming part of the new A432 Badminton Road Bridge, which replaces the previous structure demolished earlier this year.
Engineers identified cracks in the original bridge, built in 1966, prompting its removal in March.
According to National Highways, eight steel beams will be lifted into place during the weekend closure.
The agency described the operation as the final full closure required for the project, noting that subsequent construction work will be completed with minimal impact on motorway traffic.
Once the beams have been installed, work will continue to construct the remainder of the bridge, which is expected to reopen to traffic in early 2026.
The new structure will measure 46.5 metres in length and 20 metres in width, making it slightly larger than its predecessor.
National Highways said the wider design would ensure that lanes and pavements meet current safety standards, while higher side barriers would improve protection for pedestrians and cyclists.
The M4, which links Wales and the west of England to London, carries between 3,000 and 4,000 vehicles per hour on this section during peak weekend periods.
Officials have warned motorists to expect significant disruption while the motorway is closed and are urging drivers to plan alternative routes or travel at different times.
When the A432 Badminton Road Bridge reopens, it will restore an important local link that has been out of use since its demolition earlier this year.
