Bridge filter system is small victory in congestion fight

27 September 2007

The Highways Agency is introducing a new traffic-filtering system on the M48 Severn Bridge, to help keep cars moving in high winds.

The move sees large vehicles and motorbikes kept away from the crossing if gales reach 40 knots, but allows cars and vans under 2.1m to continue their journey in winds of up to 60 knots.

Filtering will operate between 6am and 10pm hours. In 40 knot winds, outside of these times, the bridge will be closed to all traffic.

Advance warning signs will be displayed on the approaches to the bridge and, initially, HA traffic officers and police will provide a high-visibility presence to help reinforce the changes.

Drivers not complying with the signs may face prosecution and the bridge will have to be closed to all traffic at wind speeds of 40 knots for the safety of all users.

Highways Agency route performance manager Chris Pope said: ‘We recognise closing the bridge to all vehicles during periods of high winds has a significant impact on road-users by increasing journey times. This is why we are looking at ways to keep the bridge open to smaller vehicles for longer, while still operating safely during high winds.’

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Bridge filter system is small victory in congestion fight

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