PRINCE OF WALES BRIDGE
Published: 20 December 2024
This is an update on the works we are carrying out on the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge.
We started a scheme of works to re-waterproof and resurface 1km of the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge earlier this year.
This was the first major resurfacing and re-waterproofing since the M4 bridge opened in 1996 and essential for the long-term operation of the bridge. We’ve also taken the opportunity to carry out other maintenance work.
The work has included:
- Removing the existing surfacing and waterproofing layer
- Inspecting the concrete bridge deck
- Carrying out repairs to the bridge deck
- Applying waterproofing system
- Replacing drainage covers
- Undertaking central barrier works
- Maintenance to the facilities in the towers
Due to unforeseen construction challenges, such as difficulty removing the existing waterproof layer, and the adverse weather we have been experiencing our works are taking longer than expected.
Unfortunately, in November damage was also found close to the central reservation during the resurfacing work. This means complex unexpected repair work is now required to ensure the carriageway on the bridge remains safe for motorists to use.
We will complete these additional repairs in early 2025. The repair work is expected to complete by April 2025 when we will then start the resurfacing work on the eastbound carriageway.
Although it may look like no work is taking place over the Christmas period, we would like to assure motorists that complex design work is ongoing.
For safety reasons, traffic management will need to remain on the bridge. Traffic management for the works over the bridge is currently two narrow lanes at 50mph but this will need to change while we complete the repair work in the new year. This may include a reduction in speed and overnight closures.
However, we have been able to remove the contraflow and reduce the overall length of the work zone. Once passed the works, the motorway returns to three lanes and a 70mph speed limit has been reinstated.
We will need to reinstall the contraflow to enable the eastbound resurfacing to be completed safely. We anticipate removing all traffic restrictions from the bridge by autumn 2025.
We have carried out surveys and we are satisfied the bridge is safe for traffic to use. Safety is the number one imperative of National Highway and as with all our major structures we will continue to monitor the bridge.
We thank you for your continued understanding and patience and apologise for any inconvenience caused.
These works will future proof the surfacing of the bridge and ensure it is fit for purpose for the next 20 years, reducing the need for further unplanned closures, which cause the most disruption to users.
Any questions?
You can find out more about the scheme, and sign up to receive email updates, via our scheme page: https://nationalhighways.co.uk/our-roads/south-west/m4-prince-of-wales-bridge-resurfacing/
If you have any queries or comments about the work, or would like further information please contact National Highways Customer Contact Centre on 0300 123 5000 or by email: info@nationalhighways.co.uk
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