M4 seven-vehicle crash sparks traffic chaos and severe delays

Motorists face long delays heading into South Wales on the M4 after a serious police-led incident involving seven vehicles on the Prince of Wales Bridge. It has been reported that a vehicle crossed the central reservation and at one point, traffic was at a standstill. One lane remained closed westbound between junction 22 and 23 until 4.30pm, but all lanes have reopened in this direction although long delays remain.

Eastbound has been fully reopened. National Highways said: "A 50mph speed limit is in place on the bridge to ensure safety as a 30-metre section of central reservation barrier has been damaged and will need replacing when weather[1] conditions improve. The M48 Severn Bridge is also closed in both directions due to high winds and is not expected to reopen until later in the day."

Try BristolLive Premium for FREE with no ads and new features[3] The message to drivers continued: "Drivers are advised to use the M50, A40 or Prince of Wales Bridge as an alternative. Drivers are also advised to plan their journeys, listen to the latest traffic reports and drive appropriately for the weather conditions."

The multiple-vehicle collision took place at around 2pm, which has caused significant damage to the central reservation which requires repair prior to all lanes being reopened.

Emergency roadworks to repair the central reservation have been suspended due to severe weather conditions at the scene, preventing the necessary equipment being safely used, National Highways[4] said.

Delays of around 90 minutes above usual journey times are being experienced on the M4 westbound between J19 and J23 on the approach to the Prince of Wales Bridge where one lane is currently closed.

References

1. ^ weather (www.bristolpost.co.uk)
2. ^ M5, M4 and M49 traffic live: Severe delays on motorways serving Bristol amid crash and storm (www.bristolpost.co.uk)
3. ^ Try BristolLive Premium for FREE with no ads and new features (www.bristolpost.co.uk)
4. ^ National Highways (nationalhighways.co.uk)