Feature
Better information for your journey
The National Traffic Control Centre collects real-time information on road conditions.
Quick Links
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
On 1st April 2008 we launched the Project Control Framework. The Framework sets out how we, together with the Department for Transport, manage and deliver major improvement projects.
Traffic news on your desktop
Helpful ways to access the latest traffic information when you need it.
Main Cable Investigations (Severn Bridge)
In April 2006, a programme of cable inspections began on the M48 Severn Bridge which opened on 8 September 1966. The inspections were carried out as a precautionary measure after corrosion was found in the suspension cables of bridges of a similar age and construction in the USA, Japan and many other parts of the world.
The main cables, which are each made up of 8,322 individual 5mm wires, were opened at nine test locations, and the wires inside were examined. Significant levels of corrosion were found at the mid-span, with lower levels of deterioration towards the towers (where the cables are under greater stress). Repairs were made to any broken wires that were found, and the cables re-sealed.
Measures to reduce the rate of deterioration of the suspension cables have been taken with the installation of dehumidification systems.
The work was carried out in two phases and involved wrapping the cable in an impermeable material and blowing dry air into the cable to reduce humidity and dry out the wires inside. The system has been fully operational since December 2008.
To monitor the condition of the cables and keep track of the rate and location of any further deterioration, an acoustic monitoring system has been installed on the main cable.
A second round of inspections is programmed to take place between February and October 2010. During the work there will be lane and speed restrictions in place for safety reasons.
As part of this work, a series of weekend closures are planned. The closures will be shown on the advance warning signs near both crossings. During the closures, drivers are advised to use the M4 Second Severn Crossing. The Severn Bridge will remain open for pedestrians and cyclists.
As a precautionary measure a restriction is in place limiting vehicles over 7.5 tonnes to one lane in each direction. This is to reduce the risk of the bridge being heavily loaded during an exceptional event, such as the closure of the Second Severn Crossing.
The M48 Severn Bridge provides a key transportion link supporting the local economies of England and Wales and the Agency recognises the importance of keeping this route safe and open to traffic. We would like to reassure the travelling public that the bridge remains safe to use.
