Authorities have issued warnings about potential fuel protests targeting key UK motorways, including the M4/M5 Almondsbury Interchange and the Prince of Wales Bridge. These warnings follow a surge of social media posts encouraging blockades in response to soaring fuel prices.
The recent price hikes stem largely from geopolitical tensions in the Middle East—specifically the conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran—which led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil transit route for roughly 20% of the world’s oil supply.
Businesses reliant on transport, such as farms and haulage companies, have been hit hard. In South Gloucestershire, rising fuel costs have also impacted local bus services, exacerbating regional transport challenges.
READ MORE: Six Candidates Vie to Replace Late Wells Mayor in By-Election
READ MORE: Multi-Vehicle Crash Causes Closure on Somerset A361
Avon and Somerset Police acknowledged the circulating online posts about potential protest sites and stated the force is closely monitoring the situation. “We are aware of social media posts relating to possible fuel protests,” a spokesperson said. “Currently, there are no confirmed plans for specific demonstrations, but we remain vigilant.”
Fuel prices have escalated sharply: unleaded petrol has risen from 133p to 155p per litre, while diesel has jumped from 142p to 192p per litre since February 28, coinciding with military airstrikes in Iran. This surge translates to an extra £14 to fill a typical family petrol car and £27 more for diesel vehicles. The price increases have caused long queues and sporadic shortages at Bristol petrol stations.
Last week, Ireland experienced significant fuel protest disruptions, with demonstrators blocking roads around Dublin and key motorway and fuel depot locations. The Irish government narrowly survived a confidence vote related to its handling of the crisis but lost two parliamentary members who opposed the government.
Northern Ireland faced similar disturbances just days later.
An internal Bristol office memo, obtained by Bristol Live, cautioned employees that similar protests may emerge across England, Wales, and Scotland between Wednesday and Friday. The memo noted that calls for action appeared in numerous online forums, with advertisements for protests varying widely in times, dates, and locations.
“These protests are not coordinated by a single group but involve multiple individuals and factions sharing information,” the memo explained. “They are inspired by large-scale Irish demonstrations and driven by the sharp fuel price increases resulting from the ongoing Middle East conflict.”
While the decentralized nature of the UK calls reduces the likelihood of widespread disruption compared to Ireland, the volume of online activity suggests isolated protests could still emerge at several locations. Overall participation may remain low and uneven, but authorities remain watchful.