The new A432 Badminton Road bridge, which crosses the M4 and links Bristol with Yate, was opened on Friday afternoon, with motorised vehicles able to use it from Saturday morning.

In 2023, a planned inspection revealed severe defects in the old bridge, which was built in 1966 and was used by around 16,000 vehicles every day. Demolishing it and replacing it with a new structure was considered the best path forward.

Sean Walsh, route manager for National Highways, said:

“We’re delighted to say that we’ll be opening the new and improved bridge this June, much faster than usual for a project of this size. Since we announced the old bridge needed to be demolished, the team has worked incredibly hard to deliver this project in just two and half years, half of the five years it would normally take.

“This new bridge will make a significant and positive difference to the journeys of visitors, local communities, and businesses. I would like to thank everyone in South Gloucestershire for their patience and support during this project.”

Lane closures were in place on the M4 earlier in June to prepare for the bridge’s opening. Work to resurface the A432 towards Yate is ongoing and is expected to be completed by March 2027.

(Picture: National Highways)