The M5 will close both directions between junction 11 (Cheltenham) and junction 12 (Gloucester) from 11pm on Friday 16 October until 6am on Monday 19 October. The closure includes junction 11a.
This is to allow contractors to demolish the Grove Court and Uphill Court footbridges, which have spanned the motorway near Gloucester for 64 years.
Eight minutes, 440 tonnes of concrete
Both footbridges measure 69 metres in length. High-reach excavators will dismantle the structures during the weekend, removing 440 tonnes of concrete and 14 tonnes of steel tendons from the carriageway.
Tendons are high-strength steel strands that hold prestressed concrete structures in compression.
The footbridges have been closed since March. They deteriorated beyond repair after concrete edge beams began crumbling onto the motorway below.
Where the closure fits
National Highways manages the demolition as part of safety maintenance on the motorway network. The northbound exit slip road at junction 11a has been closed around the clock since 8pm on 11 October. This closure will remain for approximately two weeks.
During the main M5 closure, traffic in both directions will be diverted via the A38 through Gloucester, the A40 between Cheltenham and Gloucester, and the A417. This routing avoids conflict with simultaneous bridge works on the A40 at Over.
What drivers should expect
Gloucestershire County Council expects significant traffic disruption in and around Gloucester during the closure period. The M5 is scheduled to reopen before Monday morning rush hour.
National Highways advises drivers to plan journeys in advance, seek alternative routes where possible, and allow extra time. Diversion maps and live travel updates are available on the National Highways website.
What comes next
Replacement footbridges are planned within the next five years, pending funding and network priorities. The new structures will meet modern standards, providing safe access for pedestrians, cyclists and wheelchair users.
National Highways has not disclosed the demolition costs nor named the contractor.
Terry Robinson, South West Engineering Lead for National Highways, commented: “Like many of our motorways and structures, the bridges have exceeded their structural lifespan. Replacing them will ensure the safety of road users and keep people and goods moving safely.”
