M4 closed between J18 (Bath) and J19 (M32) this weekend

The M4 will be shut in both directions between junction 18 (Bath) and junction 19 (M32) from 7pm on Friday, October 24 until 6am on Monday, October 27.

The closure is to allow National Highways to install steel beams for the replacement A432 Badminton Road Bridge as part of a key stage in the project.

Sean Walsh, route manager for National Highways, said: "The beam lift is a huge milestone in the construction of the new bridge, but we appreciate that any road closures can be frustrating for people.

"We need to fully close the M4 because we’re using specialist machinery and it’s vital that we keep those doing the work and motorists safe.

"Once complete, the new bridge will help reconnect drivers, businesses, and the local communities that have been impacted by the closure."

Eight steel beams, in groups of two, will be lifted into place across the motorway during the closure.

This is expected to be the final full weekend closure required for the scheme.

Once the beams are installed, the remaining construction work is expected to cause minimal disruption to traffic below.

The diversion route during the closure of the M4 between Junctions 18 and 19. (Image: National Highways)

The new bridge is scheduled to open in early 2026.

Measuring 46.5 metres long and 20 metres wide, the bridge will span eight lanes of motorway and will be slightly wider than the previous structure to meet current safety standards.

Higher barriers will also be installed to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists.

National Highways has warned that the closure will cause significant disruption, as between 3,000 and 4,000 vehicles use this section of the M4 every hour during peak weekend periods.

Drivers are advised to avoid the area if possible and to plan journeys for alternative times.

A westbound diversion will be in place from Junction 18 via the A46 toward Bath, the A420 toward Warmley, and the A4174 toward the M32, rejoining the M4 at junction 19.

The eastbound diversion will follow the reverse route.

The original Badminton Road Bridge, built in 1966, was closed in July 2023 after a structural investigation revealed problems with the underside of the bridge.

National Highways determined that demolition and replacement was the quickest and most cost-effective way to restore the route.

The agency has thanked the public for their patience during the works and said the improvements will deliver smoother, safer, and more reliable journeys.