### Motorists Advised to Plan Ahead Due to Widespread Roadworks and Closures Across Wales Over Bank Holiday Weekend
As Wales prepares for a busy early May bank holiday, drivers are being urged to brace themselves for a number of road and lane closures that may lead to significant disruptions across major routes. With warm and dry weather forecasted, a surge in travel is anticipated as many take advantage of the long weekend. However, several ongoing infrastructure projects and essential repair works could stand in the way of smooth journeys for many motorists.
The latest updates from traffic monitoring organisation Inrix highlight a series of closures and traffic restrictions affecting key arterial roads throughout Wales. Commuters and holidaymakers alike are encouraged to consult current travel advice, seek alternative routes if possible, and allow for extra time to reach their destinations.
Perhaps the most notable disruption is on the M4’s Prince of Wales Bridge, connecting England and South Wales. Here, resurfacing work and a contraflow have left one lane closed in both directions between Junction 22 (M49) and Junction 23 (M48). This configuration is expected to remain in place until at least 30 May, with overnight closures also likely to cause delays for those travelling late in the evening. Wales-bound traffic is now being funnelled through a contraflow lane, demanding both caution and patience from drivers.
Further north, the A466 Wye Bridge has been fully closed in both directions due to ongoing repairs. The affected stretch runs from the A40 at the Monmouth traffic lights to Lidl, with works set to continue until 4 July. Local businesses and commuters in the area may experience inconvenience as diversions route vehicles through neighbouring roads.
Meanwhile, in Merthyr Tydfil, long-term upgrades along the A465 Heads of the Valleys Road at Dowlais Top Roundabout continue to impact traffic. Narrow lanes and a 40mph speed limit are in place as part of these extensive improvement works, with some delays likely, particularly during peak travel hours. This disruption is projected to continue until July 2024, impacting one of South Wales’ critical economic corridors.
Adding to the complexity, the stretch of the A465 linking A4061 Rhigos Road and High Street at Dowlais Top Roundabout is also affected by narrow lanes and strict speed regulations. With works anticipated to extend into early 2026, the area is poised for a prolonged period of intermittent delays.
Travellers heading towards North Wales should be aware of temporary traffic lights on the Menai Bridge (A5), which runs between Anglesey and Gwynedd. This vital route is experiencing periodic hold-ups due to ongoing improvements, with the scheme scheduled to last through until December. Menai Bridge’s unique position as a gateway to Anglesey underscores the importance of pre-journey planning for those relying on this crossing.
The A48 Briton Ferry Bridge, which runs eastbound from M4 Junction 42 to A474 Neath Road, is also affected, with a single lane restriction in place as part of scheduled maintenance. According to Inrix, this situation is anticipated to continue until the early hours of 13 May, with the potential for queues in and around Neath Port Talbot.
In Powys, Crickhowell residents and visitors will encounter temporary lights in place on A40 Beaufort Street at Standard Street. Local traffic should anticipate slowdowns until at least 30 May while works are underway. Similarly, those travelling near the England-Wales border should heed warnings about temporary signals on the A490 in Shropshire, where essential works are affecting both directions until 31 May.
All told, the bank holiday weekend’s improved weather may spur more travel, but the sheer scale of the maintenance efforts means delays are all but inevitable in some locations. Authorities are appealing to drivers for understanding and vigilance, as these projects are crucial for the long-term safety and integrity of Wales’ transport infrastructure.
Motorists are advised to keep abreast of up-to-date travel bulletins, consider off-peak departure times, and, where possible, stay flexible in their travel plans. By factoring in the current network constraints, travellers can help ensure the bank holiday remains a relaxing break rather than an exercise in frustration.