Major M5 Bridge Closure to Cause Weekend Travel Disruption
A significant closure on a major UK motorway is set to create chaos for thousands of drivers this weekend. The M5, a crucial motorway linking the South West of England with Birmingham, will be affected by partial bridge closures at Junction 19 near Bristol.
Bridge Shutdown Details and Impact
The south side of the bridge, which connects motorists to Portbury Docks and Portishead, will be closed from 8pm on Friday until 6am on Monday. This closure is part of essential repair works, and while the M5 motorway itself will remain open, heavy queues and disruptions are expected around the junctions.
National Highways has issued warnings, urging road users to plan ahead due to the anticipated traffic chaos. The bridge is a busy route for commuters and freight traffic, making this closure particularly impactful.
Official Statement and Further Works
Sean Walsh, National Highways Route Manager, emphasized the importance of the maintenance. "It's a busy and well-used junction, and a vital link for the Portbury Docks and Portishead," he said. "We appreciate there will be some impacts during this essential renewal work, and we advise people to plan ahead, find alternative routes, and allow extra time for their journeys."
Additionally, National Highways is conducting renewal works on road markings and replacing road studs along stretches of the M5 between junctions 22 and 31 until spring 2026. These works will occur overnight and on weeknights only, using lane and carriageway closures to minimize disruption.
Advice for Drivers and Future Closures
Drivers are strongly advised to:
- Plan alternative routes in advance
- Allow extra time for travel during the closure periods
- Follow signed diversion routes if implemented
The north section of the same bridge will undergo a similar closure during the same hours the following weekend as works continue. National Highways assures that well-signed diversion routes will be in place as needed to help manage the traffic flow.
