Drivers in Monmouthshire are facing a prolonged period of significant travel disruption as extensive maintenance work gets underway.

The works along the M48 corridor and across the Severn Bridge are scheduled to commence on July 6 and run through until the beginning of October, creating months of inconvenience for road users.

The affected section stretches from the Newhouse Interchange near Chepstow through to the Severn Bridge crossing point, with multiple traffic management measures planned throughout.

Reduced speed limits, periodic lane shutdowns, alternative routing, and temporary full closures will all form part of the traffic management strategy during the project.

Contractors will shut one carriageway for considerable periods, channeling all vehicles into single-file narrow lanes running in opposite directions along the remaining open road.

Certain portions of the route, including the Severn Bridge crossing itself, will be completely inaccessible at various stages, necessitating detours via the M4 and Prince of Wales Bridge.

Residents commuting from Chepstow, Rogiet and surrounding communities should prepare for considerably slower trips with fewer route options, while restrictions affecting the Newhouse Interchange entry and exit roads will compound the difficulties.

When the M48 remains passable, drivers will encounter contraflow arrangements, reduced-width lanes and mandatory 30mph restrictions at principal access and departure points.

Should westbound or eastbound stretches become impassable or the contraflow system be suspended, vehicles will be redirected onto the M4 at Junction 23, rejoining the M48 at Junction 21 after traversing the Prince of Wales Bridge.

This alternative routing will extend journey durations and place additional pressure on an already heavily trafficked section of the motorway network.

Substantial queuing and hold-ups are anticipated, particularly during busy commuting periods and popular holiday getaway weekends.

The scheme forms part of a continuous upkeep programme aimed at preserving the Severn Bridge’s safety and continued operation.

Among the works, trials involving a new thinner road surface are planned for this summer to assess whether it could be deployed for future bridge resurfacing without placing extra strain on the suspension structure.

Although the works are currently timetabled for completion by October, adverse meteorological conditions or unexpected structural repairs could result in the schedule being extended.

Motorists should anticipate treating the M48 Severn Bridge crossing as a gradually-moving, controlled passage for the remainder of the summer season.

Travelers are strongly advised to make arrangements ahead of time, anticipate significant delays and account for recurring lane restrictions throughout the period.

Those undertaking trips incorporating the Newhouse Interchange or Severn Bridge should allocate considerably additional travel time to their journeys.