The Highways Agency will start work later this year on a scheme costing approximately £5m to refurbish the westbound carriageway of the M50 Queenhill Viaduct between Junctions 1 and 2 near Tewkesbury.

The five-month long scheme, starting in September, will involve removing approximately 750m of the existing surfacing, waterproofing, replacing the joints, installing a new safety barrier and putting back a new surface.

The works are essential to avoid the need for unplanned emergency repairs in the future.

During the works there will be a full closure to the westbound carriageway. Westbound traffic will be diverted onto the eastbound carriageway and this will operate as a single lane contraflow.


A temporary 40mph mandatory speed limit will be enforced with average speed safety cameras for the duration of the work, for the safety of motorists and road workers.

Moreblessing Pedhuru, the Highways Agency project sponsor, said: "We will remove the existing road surface, renew the viaduct water proofing and replace worn out bridge joints.

"We will also be replacing kerbs and verges, including the installation of a new safety barrier.

"This work is essential to ensure the safety of motorists using this viaduct on the M50 and avoid the need for unplanned and untimely emergency repairs in months to come."

Drivers are advised to allow extra time for their journeys while this work is carried out, as slight delays may occur.

They are also asked to take care when driving through the works, both for their own safety and that of the workforce.

(JM)