M4 Prince of Wales Bridge Upgrades: Overnight Closures, Contraflow, and Traffic Advice

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National Highways has announced a series of overnight closures on the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge at the end of April and into May to complete essential waterproofing and resurfacing work on a 1km stretch of the bridge.

The westbound carriageway will be closed overnight on 27 April from 9pm to 6am. Full overnight closures of both eastbound and westbound lanes are scheduled for two nights starting 1 May, with additional overnight closures planned on 6 and 8 May, all between 9pm and 6am. These closures will allow for the installation of narrow lanes and a contraflow system in preparation for resurfacing on the eastbound side.

From 6am on 7 May, a contraflow with a 40mph speed limit will be in place across the bridge. National Highways confirmed that heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) will be permitted to use both running lanes, including the contraflow lane.

During all closures, a clearly signed diversion route will be in place via the M48 Severn Bridge. However, from 27 May, new weight restrictions will prohibit HGVs over 7.5 tonnes from using the M48 Severn Bridge for an estimated 12 to 18 months, making the Prince of Wales Bridge the designated alternative route for these vehicles.

The weight restriction follows routine inspections revealing deterioration in the main cables of the M48 Severn Bridge. National Highways has stressed that these measures are necessary to protect the bridge’s structural integrity and public safety.

The ongoing resurfacing work, which began earlier this year, includes removing the existing surface and waterproofing layers, repairing the concrete deck, applying new waterproofing, resurfacing, and replacing bridge joints and drainage covers. These improvements are designed to extend the bridge’s lifespan and reduce the need for future unplanned closures.

Motorists are advised to allow extra time for journeys and to check for live updates, as closures and traffic management measures may change at short notice due to weather or unforeseen challenges. National Highways anticipates all restrictions will be lifted by autumn 2025.