The next phase of roadworks at a junction on the M4 begins today (Monday).
The Theale interchange at junction 12 will now be reduced to two lanes on the east side.
The next phase of roadworks begins on the M4 junction 12 today
And drivers are being warned that this will inevitably lead to congestion in the area and that they should allow extra time for their journeys.
The lane closure is expected to be in place for two months as the “major work to maintain the structural integrity of both bridges” continues. Phase one has now been completed.
Project manager Nick Axford said: “With many people returning to work following the festive season we expect congestion around the junction and would encourage people to avoid the area if they can or allow extra time to complete their journeys.
“We understand this is a busy section of road and that’s why it’s important that we carry out this work to ensure these vital bridges remain in good order for years to come.
“All our work is carefully planned to minimise disruption, and we are carrying out the majority of our maintenance at night – when the junction is at its quietest – but some daytime working is necessary. We appreciate the inconvenience this can cause, and I would take this opportunity to thank road users for their understanding while we complete this vital work.”
From 9pm tonight (Monday) and overnight closure on the east side of the junction – including the eastbound slip road onto the M4 – will be in place.
These closures will take place every night from Monday to Saturday until February 7.
They will then be in place again from February 10 until March 15, from 9pm to 6am, Monday to Saturday.
A full weekend closure of the east side of the junction, including the eastbound on slip to the M4, will be in place from 9pm on Friday, February 28, until 6am on Monday, March 3.
The diversion route during the overnight closures on the Theale junction
The A4 westbound and M4 eastbound on slip diversion will see traffic diverted via the A4 into Reading, A33 south, A339 Ringway North, A340 Aldermaston Road, Main Road, Tadley Hill, A340 Aldermaston Road, A340 Paices Hill, A340 Basingstoke Road and A4 Bath Road back to the Theale Interchange at junction 12.
The work at the junction, which has been taking place for several months, is due to be finished by the end of March and includes replacing the expansion joints, waterproofing, and resurfacing.