The M5 motorway between Bridgwater and Taunton will close overnight for an entire month starting Sunday, June 14, to facilitate essential resurfacing work on the Huntworth viaduct. This vital section, managed by National Highways, spans over the River Parrett, the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal, and the Bristol to Exeter railway line.
The first stage involves closing the southbound carriageway between junction 24 (Bridgwater South) and junction 25 (Taunton), including the junction 24 entry slip road, from June 14 through July 15. After a brief pause, resurfacing will continue southbound from July 19 to 30. Finally, the northbound side will be closed between August 2 and 6 to complete the work.
This project highlights innovative, eco-friendly construction methods. Contractor FM Conway will utilize electric plant vehicles and apply a specially modified binder designed to enhance durability while reducing CO2 emissions. This approach follows successful trials of low-carbon resurfacing techniques on other UK motorways, such as the M4 in Wiltshire and the M5 stretch between Cullompton and Exeter.
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Steve Aldridge, National Highways project manager, emphasized the environmental benefits: “We are transforming how we build and maintain roads to support the UK’s transition to a low-carbon economy. Projects like this not only cut carbon emissions but also result in better road quality for drivers and quieter works for nearby residents.”
During closures, drivers are advised to use the A38 route via North Petherton and Monkton Heathfield as an alternative. Detailed diversion information is available on the Somerset County Council website.
This resurfacing project complements other regional infrastructure improvements, including a £5.9 million drainage upgrade near junction 26 (Wellington) and a £50 million road strengthening initiative around the St Georges railway bridge near junction 21 (Weston-super-Mare). Somerset Council has also recently completed a significant enhancement of the A38 Chelston link road.