Drivers have been urged to expect delays this week amid protests along the motorways that serve Bristol. Avon and Somerset Police have issued a warning ahead of the major disruption planned on Monday (July 4) involving road blockages on the M4, M5 and M32.
It is expected that the protests may also have knock-on effects on other roads, as drivers seek alternative routes. The protests are said to be around the soaring prices of petrol and diesel.
Superintendent Paul Wiggington of Avon and Somerset Police said: "Working alongside Gwent Police, we are engaging with the various organisers of these protests. People have a right to peaceful protest and liaison teams from both Gwent and Avon and Somerset have been working to understand campaigners' plans so public safety is maintained and to reduce disruption to others.
Follow our live coverage of the blockades, and any resulting delays and traffic issues, from 6:30am on Monday
"Nevertheless, drivers can expect journey times will likely be longer than normal, especially on motorways and main roads during the busiest times of the day. We advise motorists to consider any alternative travel plans available and ensure they are suitably prepared in case they are delayed."
A slow-moving roadblock is also planned on the M5 between Bridgwater and the Almondsbury Interchange from about 8.30am, which is likely to head east towards Bristol via the M4 and M32. It is currently unknown how many protesters will be taking part
Full details of the protest
SEVERN BRIDGES
The most significant protests are expected on both the Avon and Somerset and Gwent sides of the Prince of Wales Bridge (M4 junctions 21-22) starting between 6am and 7am on Monday, July 4. It is very likely there will be a significant amount of disruption on the M4 in both directions.
This will not only affect those of you travelling between England and Wales, but if large queues develop then there is almost certainly going to be a knock-on effect on the M5, M48 and M32 too.
Depending on the numbers and the size of queues created, there remains a possibility that disruption could last for a large amount of the day, which has the potential to impact shift workers. Protests will most likely be limited to the M4, but there is a possibility that a demonstration could happen on the old Severn Bridge (M48) as well.
M5/M4
In addition to the protest affecting people travelling between England and Wales, a slow-rolling roadblock is being planned for the same day.
Approximately 60-70 vehicles will set off northbound from the M5 services near junction 24 (Bridgwater Gateway) at 8.30am and travel at approximately 30-40mph blocking all lanes. The hard shoulder will be left vacant for emergency vehicles to use.
The convoy will exit onto the M4 at the Almondsbury Interchange and is planning to head towards the Severn Bridge. Organisers say there is a possibility of a similar protest happening in the opposite direction at the same time to maximise impact.
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