Diversion set up after M4 crash forces motorway closure

A diversion route has been set up this morning (July 17) following a "serious" crash on the M4. The motorway is closed between junctions 22 and 21 due to a multi-vehicle collision^[1] during the early hours on the London-bound side of the road.

The incident has led to a large emergency service response at the scene, which is just after the Severn crossing. National Highways^[2] said the M4 is likely to remain closed throughout the morning rush hour.

As a result, motorists have been advised to allow extra time for their journey with a diversion set up. The route sends drivers to the exit of the M4 at junction 22 onto the M49 southbound.

They will then follow the M49 to the M5 junction 18 and once at the roundabout take the fourth exit. This will take road users to the M5 northbound at junction 18A.

National Highways then advise drivers to continue along this route until you are at junction 16 which will cause you to rejoin the M4 eastbound. Drivers are also advised to use the M48 Severn Bridge crossing where possible.

Full diversion route:

• Exit the M4 at J22 and take the 2nd exit onto the M49 southbound.
• Follow the M49 southbound to the M5 J18 and at the roundabout take the 4th exit to rejoin the M5 northbound at J18A.
• Continue on the M5 northbound to J16 to rejoin the M4 eastbound and continue your journey.

For live updates on this incident visit BristolLIve's blog here^[4].

References

1. ^{^} multi-vehicle collision (www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk)
2. ^{^} National Highways (www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk)
3. ^{^} When you can drive over Bristol Bridge and not get fined in the next fortnight (www.bristolpost.co.uk)
4. ^{^} here (www.bristolpost.co.uk)