Major M4 motorway bridge suddenly closed sparking 'severe' delays

An entry to a major motorway bridge has been closed - sparking severe delays for the morning rush hour.

The westbound entry slip road to the M4 Prince of Wales bridge near Bristol was shut due to a diesel spill overnight. The spill has damaged the carriageway surface, leaving the road needing resurfacing. said the entry to the bridge will remain closed throughout the morning. The bridge is used by thousands of commuters each morning travelling between and . Diversions have operating via the M48 Severn Bridge, which is open in both directions. The main carriageway of M4 Prince of Wales Bridge was completely closed to drivers travelling westbound earlier this morning as efforts continued to clean up the spill.

It has now been reopened in both directions, but a closure remains in place for the J22 westbound entry slip.

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Drivers have been urged to plan ahead, with long delays continuing following the reopening of the bridge.

A statement from National Highways Severn Bridges said: "The M4 westbound Prince of Wales Bridge has now reopened following conclusion of last night's works.

"Please be advised, the J22 westbound entry slip road will remain closed for resurfacing works, meaning no access from M49.

"Please plan ahead of your journey this morning".

According to traffic tracker Inrix, the diversion is adding a delay of 15 minutes at the Severn Bridge.

It comes after drivers were warned of over the next few days.

Workers will re-surface the road over the span of a few days and will carry out repairs overnight. The work will require lane closures across the bridge.

According to National Highways, maintenance will begin on Sunday, April 27 and will last until May 5.

During these days, the bridge westbound will close between 9pm and 6am the following day.

Heavy goods vehicles over the 7.5t weight restriction have been told they might not be able to access the bridge due to weight restrictions.

National Highways said the work was necessary due to "damage" caused to the central reservation.

A statement said: "We’re continuing our resurfacing works on the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge.

"The works will extend the life of the road surface, providing smoother and safer journeys for motorists.

"Last year, damage was found close to the central reservation of the bridge during the westbound resurfacing works.

"This has meant that since the new year, our teams have been undertaking some complex, and unexpected, design and repair works.

"These repairs are now complete and will ensure the carriageway remains safe for motorists to use. "