New M4 bridge reopening will be a ‘huge relief’

Maggie Tyrrell, leader of South Gloucestershire Council and Ian Boulton, co-leader, said in a joint statement it is not only a "vital route" between Yate and Bristol but its reopening means "local communities along it are reconnected".

"It is important to recognise the scale of what has been achieved," the statement said.

"The decision to demolish and rebuild the bridge was unplanned, and every aspect of this project - from design through to delivery - had to be developed from a standing start and a blank page.

"We would like to thank residents, businesses and road users for their patience and understanding while this significant and essential piece of infrastructure has been rebuilt."

To complete the works, the M4 will be closed overnight in both directions between junctions 18 and 19 from 5 May through to 9 May and from 1 June to 6 June.

There will also be lane closures in both directions from 8 June to 13 June.