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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.
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High Winds Protocol
Highways Agency Protocol for Operating the M48 Crossing during periods of strong winds
This protocol is based upon the gust wind speeds measured by the SRC plc maintained anemometers located on the M48 Crossing at the following three locations: Severn Bridge mid-span, upstream and downstream and adjacent to the Aust Cliff on the downstream side of the crossing. In the text below, 'closed' means all vehicles are prohibited, 'restricted' means vehicles over 6'9'' (2.1m) and motorcycles are prohibited.
Sections 1 to 5 below relate to periods of increasing wind, Section 6 relates to the subsequent removal of imposed restrictions. Sections 1 to 6 may be considered as the 'basic protocol'.
Sections 1A and 3A have been inserted to permit the option for earlier introduction of restrictions based on the information received from weather forecasts. These items are subjective and may be considered as an annex to the protocol. Only persons authorised by the Highways Agency may make decisions and give instructions on these items.
1. When the gust wind speed reaches 30 Knots for six times or more within a ten minute period, the matrix signs on the crossing shall be activated to show an advisory speed limit of 40 mph.
1A. When the gust wind speed reaches 30 Knots for six times or more within a ten minute period, and the current forecast predicts wind speeds increasing to over 40 Knots within the next hour, the crossing shall be restricted.
2. When gust wind speeds increase to 35 Knots, alternate matrix signs will indicate that the leeward lane in each carriageway is closed to traffic. (This excludes two thirty-degree arcs centred on the longitudinal axis of the crossing).
3. When gust wind speeds reach 40 Knots for twenty-four times or more within a ten minute period, the height restriction strategy shall be implemented.
3A When the gust wind speed reaches 40 Knots for twenty four times or more within a ten minute period, and the current forecast predicts wind speeds increasing to over 60 Knots within the next hour, the crossing shall be closed to all traffic.
4. When gust wind speed reaches 60 Knots the crossing shall be closed to all traffic.
5. When gust wind speed exceeds 70 Knots the crossing shall remain closed to all traffic until the Operator's maintenance contractor has agreed to the re-opening of the crossing.
6. The restrictions or closures implemented above shall remain in place until the gust wind speed has fallen and remained below 35 Knots for 30 minutes and the current forecast does not predict wind speeds increasing to over 40 Knots within the next 4 hours.
