Motorists using the Second Severn Crossing face long delays because of resurfacing works, UK Transport Minister Mike Penning has said.
Speaking in a debate on crossing tolls on Thursday, Mr Penning said: “Work will start, I can give the exact date, on June 9 and run until July 14 on the eastbound carriageways, and between September 6 and October 11 on the westbound carriageways.
“That is due mostly to the fact that the inside lane in both directions is severely worn and will have to be completely replaced.
“We looked carefully at how to manage the obvious disruption that will take place. Options included a contraflow system and shutting the bridge while work is carried out.
“The option that we went for will extend the work, overall it will take about five weeks to put a new waterproof membrane on the bridge and surface the road, but it will leave at least one lane open each way.
“We made the decision not to shut the bridge or use a contraflow system that would have caused more expense and extensive delays. There will be delays, for which I apologise, but investment must be put into the bridge because of its age, and that will be done. It is a reflection of the amount of traffic that the bridge carries.”
Mr Penning also said that from July, motorists will be able to use credit and debit cards that do not use a PIN number.