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M5 Near Bristol - overnight closure for bridge installation, Lawrence Weston

Government Communications (NDS)

26 January 2011

During this time the motorway will be closed northbound at junction 18a. Southbound access will be available to junction 17, however vehicles wishing to continue beyond junction 17 will be advised to leave the M5 at junction 15 and take the M4 west to follow a signed diversion route.The original Lawrence Weston Bridge, located just north of Junction 18, was demolished on Christmas Day 2009 having been hit by a number of over height vehicles, causing irreparable damage. The new structure, which is being installed in a joint venture with Bristol City Council, will be a low maintenance, single span steel bridge suitable for pedestrians, cyclists and all other non-motorised users.Highways Agency project manager Dave Frampton said:“Although we are fully closing the M5, we’re doing it at a time when traffic flows are lower, so that we limit any delays for road users. “Once the new bridge has been installed, approximately four weeks of completion work will take place prior to public access being restored. Most works will take place on the verge with a hard shoulder closure for safety.”Cllr Jon Rogers, Bristol’s Executive Member for Cycling City said: "It's excellent news that this bridge is being restored. It will reopen a safe bicycle and pedestrian route towards the Bristol Channel, Severn Beach and on into Wales as well as to workplaces in Avonmouth, and vice versa of course. “With the Highways Agency investment in the Cycling City project, Bristolians again have access to coastal cycle paths, providing hours of exploration in this rich natural environment. It’s another opportunity to travel by bike and have a healthier lifestyle.”