FOI release

Severn Bridge Roadworks

Case reference FOI2025/00618

Received 25 March 2025

Published 22 May 2025

Request

Could you please provide details of the current Resurfacing roadworks that are being carried out on the Prince of Wales bridge.

I'd like to know:

A summary of why these roadworks needed to take place.

Planned Budget for the roadworks

Planned start and end dates

Current projected expenditure

Current projected End date.

What further roadworks may be planned for the bridge in the next 10 years?

Response

A summary of why these roadworks needed to take place.

We are currently undertaking essential resurfacing and re-waterproofing works on the cable-stayed section of the Prince of Wales Bridge, covering approximately 1km of the structure. These improvements aim to enhance the driving experience and ensure the long-term maintenance and safe operation of the bridge.

The existing surfacing and waterproofing on the cable stay bridge have reached the end of their service life and requires full replacement to maintain a safe and smooth-running surface. This project marks the first major resurfacing and waterproofing activity since the bridge opened in 1996. While some localised patch repairs have been carried out on approximately 20% of the area previously, significant sections lacked adequate waterproofing. This posed a risk of water ingress and potential long-term deterioration of the underlying structure. By applying new waterproofing across the entire surface, we are creating a comprehensive seal for the bridge deck, which will help preserve its structural integrity and long-term performance.

Initially, the plan was to waterproof only the main carriageway. However, during the works, it became apparent that the existing waterproofing on the verges was not sound - inspections revealed that the existing waterproofing on the verges was also unsound, contrary to initial testing. Consequently, we were unable to effectively overlap the new waterproofing as originally planned. To guarantee the long-term effectiveness and durability of the resurfacing and waterproofing, it became necessary to expand the project scope to include both verges along the entire length of the cable-stayed section. This unavoidable adjustment has impacted both the project timeline and its overall cost.

Additionally, unexpected damage to the bridge deck has been identified. This has required additional surveys and the implementation of further repair works to ensure the continued safety of road users and the structural integrity of the bridge. As a direct result of these unforeseen issues, the completion of the resurfacing works has been delayed.

The current traffic management measures will remain in place on the Prince of Wales Bridge until Easter, after which the remaining phases of the programme will continue to bring the project to completion.

Planned Budget for the roadworks

 £10,950,000.

Planned start and end dates

Planned start date: 08/07/24

Planned end date: 21/11/24

Current projected expenditure

 £16,248,000

Current projected End date.

The current projected end date is before autumn 2025. According to the current programme, on-site works are scheduled to be completed by end of August, with the contraflow expected to be removed by the end of July. Please note that these dates are based on current information and may be subject to change due to factors such as weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances on site.

 

What further roadworks may be planned for the bridge in the next 10 years?

The works planned for the next 10 years may need to be reprioritised or deferred due to evolving priorities, emergency requirements, and budget availability. This programme is derived from our asset management plan; however, many activities will be contingent upon inspection findings and their assessed priority. Please note that there is currently no confirmed funding settlement for Road Investment Strategy (RIS) 3, and as such, this plan is subject to change based on the final budget allocation. While some of our works may require traffic restrictions, where possible they will be co-ordinated to minimise disruption for road users.

 

The following works are planned for the Prince of Wales Bridge in the next 10 years:

 

  •          Avon Gantry Renewal – (2031 to 2032)

  •          Gwent Gantry Renewal – (2032 to 2033)

  •          Main Gantry Renewal – (2025 to 2026)

  •          Major Painting Renewal – (2030 to 2032)

  •          Road Level Painting Renewal – (2030 to 2032)

  •          Wax Leak Mitigation and Fire Protection – (2026 to 2028)

  •          Cable Stays Mayercord Wrap Renewal – (2030 to 2031)

  •          Post Tensioning Remediation – (2030 to 2032)

  •          Movement Joint Cyclical Maintenance – (2025 to 2044)

  •          Street Lighting Renewal – (2030 to 2032)

  •          Carriageway Resurfacing Renewal – Viaduct Sections – (2030 to 2031)

  •          Carriageway Resurfacing Renewal – Cable Stay – (2028 to 2029)

  •          Road Marking Renewal – (2025 to 2044)

  •          Central Barrier Renewal – (2026 to 2027)

  •          OBB Nearside Renewal – (2028 to 2029)

  •          Secondary Damper Anchorage Remediation – (2031 to 2032)

  •          Viaduct Concrete Remedial Works – (2030 to 2031)

  •          Overhead Gantry Renewal – (2031 to 2032)

  •          Halving Joint Bearings, PTFE Replacement & Refurb – (2025 to 2026)

  •          Back Span Pier Bearings, PTFE Replacement & Refurb – (2030 to 2032)

Documents

There are no documents for this release.

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