Drivers warned to expect delays during bridge repairs

3:34pm Friday 11th July 2008

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DRIVERS are being warned to expect delays in the autumn when resurfacing work starts on the Avonmouth Bridge.

The Highways Agency is expected to start the work on the southbound carriageway of the M5 bridge on September 1. It will continue until January next year.

The work will include major resurfacing and waterproofing work.

During the work there will be narrow lanes and a 50mph speed limit controlled by speed cameras.

At times there will be a contraflow but three lanes will remain open in each direction throughout the work and the cycle path will remain open.

David Stock, project manager from the Highways Agency, said: "The existing surface was laid during the previous strengthening contract which started in 1995 and has reached the end of its effective life.

"We will be using a new resurfacing material which unlike some of the existing material is able to be machine laid, providing an improved surface finish.

"The new material is designed to last longer and give a smoother ride than the existing surface.

"We will be working 24 hours a day and keep three of the four lanes open in each direction to minimise disruption. However, some peak time delays should be expected and drivers are advised to allow more time for their journeys."

Similar work will be carried out on the northbound carriageway of the bridge in 2009.

A public exhibition on the work will be on display at the Avonmouth Community Centre on Thursday, July 25 (4-8pm).