M5 bridge Highways bosses share update on ‘vital’ repairs
REPAIR work is now well under way on a road bridge across the M5 that is going to be closed until August 2021.
Highways England closed the Staverton bridge on the B4634 Gloucester Road in July because the structure needs concrete repairs, waterproofing, improved fencing and resurfacing.
It means motorists will face diversions for another 10 months.
In an update to the project, Highways England shared an image of the concrete repairs on the bridge which crosses the motorway between junction 10 for Cheltenham and junction 11 for the A40 Golden Valley Bypass.
It said: “Staverton bridge has been carrying B4634 traffic over the M5 since the 1970s and is now in need of refurbishment. Here’s a peek at the concrete deck removal work.”
Gloucester Road is a popular link between Staverton and west Cheltenham and the western side of Tewkesbury Road. It has been well used by people heading to the Aldi store off Tewkesbury Road and Gallagher and Kingsditch retail parks.
It is also one of the routes to the popular House in the Tree pub, which is just off the Old Gloucester Road.
Official diversion routes take motorists along Princess Elizabeth Way, but motorists are also finding local diversions.
It is not due to reopen until Friday, August 13, 2021, unless work is completed ahead of schedule.
The closure will also affect cyclists and pedestrians.
Diversions are via the B4634 and A4019 to the north east of the bridge, and via the B4063 and A40 to the south west.
Highways England has said the repairs will make people’s journeys smoother and will protect the bridge for years to come.
And while the bridge closure will affect journey times, the works have been described as “vital improvements.”