WORK to replace sections of the barriers on the M5 slip road at junction 18 near Avonmouth is underway.

The scheme, which started yesterday, involves the removal of the current steel restraint barriers, replacing them with concrete ones.

Highways Agency project sponsor, Dave Frampton, said: “The existing barrier has reached the end of its life and needs to be replaced to maintain safe and reliable journeys on this vital route.

“The work has been carefully planned and is being carried out when traffic flows are lowest for the majority of the scheme to minimise disruption.

“For the safety of road users and to protect the initial installation of the new barriers there will also be a lane two closure in place during the day on August 3 and 4. Drivers are advised to allow slightly more time to complete their journeys.”

The majority of the work will take place overnight on Mondays and Fridays between 8pm and 6am and the southbound slip road will be closed completely during these times.

There will also be daytime lane closures in place for the first two days.

A fully signed diversion route will be in place while the night time closures are in place.

The work is scheduled to be completed by Tuesday, August 18.