On March 18, 2026, the M5 motorway is closed in both directions between junctions 18 (Avonmouth) and 19 (Portbury) due to a welfare-related incident. This closure has led to significant congestion in the area, prompting authorities to advise motorists to seek alternative routes.

Avon and Somerset Police confirmed the closure, stating, “The M5 is closed in both directions between junctions 18 (Avonmouth) and 19 (Portbury) due to a welfare-related incident.” As traffic builds up, drivers are experiencing delays and are encouraged to find other routes to avoid the affected section.

In response to the closure, Bristol City Council has switched off the Clean Air Zone to facilitate diversions. This means that cameras monitoring the Clean Air Zone will be suspended during the closure, allowing drivers to navigate without incurring charges.

For those whose vehicles are diverted into the Clean Air Zone due to planned roadworks, Bristol City Council has stated, “If your vehicle is diverted due to planned roadworks into the Clean Air Zone and you follow the signed diversion route, you will not have to pay the zone charge.” This provision aims to alleviate the financial burden on drivers forced to change their routes.

Additionally, drivers who have already paid a zone charge due to road diversions can apply for a refund. Those who received a Penalty Charge Notice as a result of the diversion can appeal the fine, providing some relief amid the ongoing disruption.

National Highways has issued guidance for drivers navigating the area. Southbound drivers are advised to follow the hollow circle symbol on road signs, while northbound drivers should look for the solid triangle symbol. This signage is crucial for ensuring that motorists can safely and efficiently reroute around the closure.

As of now, the M5 remains closed, and traffic conditions continue to evolve as authorities manage the situation. The closure is significant not only for local commuters but also for those traveling longer distances, as it impacts major routes in the region.

The sequence of events surrounding the M5 closure is critical for all involved, particularly for local residents and businesses that rely on the motorway for access and transportation. The ongoing incident highlights the importance of effective communication and contingency planning in managing traffic disruptions.

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The recent police incident on the M5 raised a critical question: how will this disruption affect traffic flow in Bristol? The M5 was closed in both directions between junction 18 for Avonmouth and junction 19 for Portbury, leading to significant delays.

As of now, the M5 has reopened, but long delays persist on the route. Congestion is reported to reach junction 20 for Clevedon northbound and junction 17 for Cribbs Causeway southbound, with traffic management systems indicating average speeds as low as five mph during the closure.

Local authorities implemented diversion routes to help manage the traffic flow during the incident. Additionally, the Clean Air Zone fines were temporarily suspended for the duration of the closure to alleviate the burden on motorists.

Motorists can expect delays of 30 to 45 minutes in both directions, with four miles of congestion reported northbound and three miles southbound. The incident, described as ‘welfare-related,’ brought all traffic to a standstill during the peak morning hours.

Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time and check real-time traffic updates. Those impacted by the closure and delays can reach out to the National Highways 24/7 Contact Centre at 0300 123 5000 for assistance or updates.

While the M5 has reopened, delays could persist even after the motorway has fully cleared, as traffic gradually returns to normal. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full impact of the incident on overall traffic patterns in the area.

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