Drivers are advised that lane closures and a speed restrictions are in place on the M4 westbound carriageway between junction 18 and 19 following an incident which has caused extensive bridge damage.
The incident happened at around 8.30am today on the Frome Bridge near Bath. A lorry overturned on the westbound carriageway rupturing its fuel tank. Two cars were also involved in the incident.
The lorry has now been recovered but extensive damage has been caused to over 30 metres of bridge parapet, which has left a 10 metre drop next to the central reservation. Around fifty metres of central reservation barrier have also been damaged and large volume of fuel has leaked onto the carriageway, which will require resurfacing.
Highways England Network Operations Manager Rob Llewellyn said:“The incident has caused significant damage and our main priority now is to ensure that this section of the M4 is safe for use and the repairs are carried out as quickly as possible.
“We are using all the resources available to devise a traffic management plan and start repair work quickly but this will mean lane closures and speed restrictions will be needed until work can be completed.
“We would like to thank road users for their patience and understanding while we carry out these vital repairs and ask them to drive carefully on this section of the motorway until work can be completed.”
Two lanes have now been reopened on the westbound carriageway and a 40 mph temporary speed limit will beput in place.
Details on the repairs and any related traffic management will be publicised when plans have been finalised.
Drivers are advised of delays and to plan their journeys and listen to the last traffic reports for the latest information.
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