New M4 Bridge Set to Reopen, Reconnecting Key Route

A newly constructed bridge over the M4 in South Gloucestershire is due to reopen this summer, bringing relief to communities and road users following nearly two years of disruption.

The A432 Badminton Road overbridge, which spans one of the busiest sections of the motorway, was closed in July 2023 after inspections revealed structural damage, including cracking and deterioration. Authorities determined that demolishing the original structure and building a replacement would be the most efficient solution.

The new bridge will reopen in phases, with pedestrians and cyclists able to use it from 19 June. It will then fully reopen to vehicles from 07:00 BST on 20 June.

National Highways said the project has been delivered significantly faster than expected for a scheme of this scale. Work has been completed in around two and a half years—roughly half the time typically required for similar infrastructure projects.

Before its closure, the original bridge—built in 1966—carried around 16,000 vehicles each day, serving as a key connection between Yate and Bristol.

Sean Walsh of National Highways said the reopening would have a meaningful impact on local journeys, crediting the project team for their efforts in delivering the replacement structure at pace.

The new bridge measures approximately 46.5 metres in length and 20 metres in width and has now been reconnected to the surrounding road network.

Local leaders have welcomed the development. In a joint statement, South Gloucestershire Council leaders Maggie Tyrrell and Ian Boulton described the route as vital for local connectivity, noting that its reopening will restore links between communities that have been disrupted since the closure.

They also highlighted the complexity of the project, which required rapid planning and delivery following an unanticipated closure. They thanked residents, businesses, and road users for their patience throughout the works.

To complete final construction activities, a series of overnight motorway closures will take place on the M4 between junctions 18 and 19 from 5 to 9 May and again from 1 to 6 June. Additional lane restrictions will also be in place between 8 and 13 June.