Captivating footage has emerged showcasing the remarkable installation of a new bridge over the M4 motorway, completed ahead of schedule. The motorway was fully closed between junctions 18 (Bath) and 19 (M32) from 7 pm on Friday, October 24, until 3 am on Monday, October 27. This closure facilitated the installation of steel beams for the new A432 Badminton Road bridge, marking the final major phase of the project that required a full weekend shutdown.
During the closure, engineering crews successfully installed eight massive steel beams, completing the critical structural work sooner than anticipated.
Terry Robinson, Engineering Team Manager at National Highways, expressed gratitude to drivers for their patience: “We thank the public for their understanding while we safely installed the beams for the new Badminton Road bridge. Finishing ahead of schedule is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our teams. We aim to minimize disruption and continue progressing swiftly.”
READ MORE: Halloween Arrives as Somerset Named One of the UK’s Most Haunted Locations
Construction of the original bridge dates back to 1966, featuring a concrete post-tensioned design typical of its era, when future maintenance needs were not heavily factored in. However, structural surveys conducted in July 2023 revealed accelerated deterioration and cracking on the southeast underside of the bridge.
As a safety measure, the bridge was closed to vehicular traffic, though cyclists and pedestrians were still permitted access. Based on expert recommendations, the decision was made to replace the existing structure with a new online replacement bridge.
The new bridge will span eight lanes of the motorway and will be built to modern safety standards, featuring wider lanes, pavements, and higher barriers to enhance protection for pedestrians and cyclists. National Highways expects the bridge to open to the public in early spring 2026, marking a significant infrastructure upgrade for the region.