The closure is necessary to allow for the replacement of a 4.5-tonne bridge expansion joint, which is nearing the end of its serviceable life. The joint, which runs across the width of the bridge, needs to be replaced to ensure the link road remains safe and to reduce the risk of emergency repairs being needed in the future.
In addition to the link road closure, the eastbound entry slip road at the M4 Junction 5 Langley Interchange will also be closed for safety reasons during the repair period.
Although the works have been scheduled for the weekend to minimise disruption during peak weekday traffic, roads in the area—particularly between M4 junctions 5, 4b, and 4—are expected to be busier than usual. Drivers are advised to plan ahead and allow for additional journey time.
Diversion routes
Hauliers travelling eastbound on the M4 will be diverted at junction 4, where they can return westbound and rejoin the M25 southbound via the link road at junction 4b.
Those intending to join the M4 eastbound from the Langley Interchange (junction 5) will be redirected to the M4 westbound at junction 6, where they can rejoin the M4 eastbound and follow the diversion for the M25 southbound.
The link road connecting the M4 eastbound to the M25 northbound will also experience brief closures for traffic management. These closures will occur for approximately one hour starting at 11pm on Friday and again around 4:30am on Monday.