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How We Manage Our Roads
In this section you can find out more about how we manage and maintain these roads and plan for the future
The Project Control Framework
This framework sets out how we, together with the Department for Transport, manage and deliver major road improvement projects.
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Helpful ways to access the latest traffic information when you need it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the bridge about to fall down?
No, but it has reached the stage where it is uneconomical to maintain it. The steel beams, which were built before the war, have been seriously affected by corrosion and the concrete slab on them has been affected by road salts.
Why will it take so long?
The A404(M) is a busy road which crosses the main London to Bristol railway. These are both important transport links and so it is essential to avoid delays to travellers. The existing bridge would be difficult to demolish in one hit and so it has to be done in stages with phased traffic management layouts. This and the limited access slow down the whole construction process.
Has the design been finalised?
No. At the moment a preliminary design has been prepared for planning and pricing purposes. However, it is proposed that the final design be carried out by a partnership of an experienced consultant and contractor. They will be chosen by a bidding system based on their submitted proposals. We will be looking for the best scheme which balances cost, speed of construction and minimum disruption to the public. This method of design will provide the widest choice of expertise in Europe.
Will there be much noise?
Unfortunately, there will be some. Everything possible will be done to minimise it, but due to the fact that work is being done over a busy railway line, some night working will be inevitable. The exact amount will depend on the final scheme which is adopted.
Will there be delays to traffic?
No, there should not be. Two lanes will be maintained in each direction at all times. There will be a speed limit imposed, together with narrow lanes, but the capacity of the motorway should not be affected. Please note that the speed limit will be imposed from junction 9a to 9b in each direction.
