M48 Severn Bridge could reopen to HGVs in autumn 2026

National Highways has set out a technology-led scheme to manage lorry flows and protect the ageing crossing. The bridge is currently subject to a 7.5-tonne weight restriction[1] due to concerns over the long-term integrity of its suspension cables. National Highways says it remains on track to get HGVs back onto the M48 Severn Bridge by October 2026.

Under its medium-term proposals, it is finalising the design for a technology-led system to allow lorries back onto the bridge. This system would manage HGV flows in a way that prevents overloading and maintains safety, delivering minimal delays to drivers and little to no impact on other traffic. The restriction has kept HGV traffic "consistently low," which National Highways says has been "vital" to minimising safety risks while investigations continue.

Work on the new HGV management system is expected to begin this summer, with implementation targeted for completion by autumn 2026. If testing confirms the system is effective and safe, the bridge could reopen to HGVs at that point. Traffic modelling is being finalised to assess the impact of different lorry movement scenarios on congestion, particularly along the Wye Valley Link Road during the morning rush.

An eastbound peak-time HGV restriction is being considered to avoid additional queuing. Traffic Regulation Orders are being drawn up to give legal force to any new limits and enforcement arrangements. In parallel, National Highways is conducting a long-term study focused on strengthening the M48 Severn Bridge for future use.

This includes low-cost trials on the main suspension cables. Tests on the Forth Bridge in Scotland - and similar trials planned on the Severn - involve clamping cables and measuring how much strength is retained or transferred. An external workshop is due in October 2026 to set out possible technical solutions, drawing on experience from similar bridges around the world and weighing up cost, construction timescales and traffic management needs.

The 7.5-tonne limit was introduced to reduce strain on the bridge and ensure the safety of all road users while long-term solutions are developed.

HGVs will continue to be diverted, mainly using the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge instead.

References

1. ^ currently subject to a 7.5-tonne weight restriction (www.southwalesargus.co.uk)