Work has started on a road safety improvement programme in Bristol.

Highways England is replacing the sub-standard corrugated central reservation barrier on the M32 Eastville Viaduct with a concrete steel barrier, improving safety for thousands of motorists who use the route daily.

The 11-week scheme will be carried out overnight in phases. The first tranche of work will see overnight closures of the north and southbound carriageways at various points between junctions 1 (Hambrook), 2 (Fishponds) and 3 (Bristol City Centre), from 8pm to 6am, Monday to Friday only.


After this, the majority of closures will affect the southbound carriageway in various sections. During daytime hours, narrow lanes and 40mph restrictions will be in place both northbound and southbound. Diversions will also be in place.

Highways England asset delivery manager Julian Strong said: "The current barrier has reached the end of its serviceable life, having been in situ since the viaduct was built in the 1970s.

"We are now taking steps to replace it with a durable concrete barrier which will improve safety for all users of the M32 and require less overall maintenance moving forward."

(LM/MH)