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. Avon and Somerset Police confirmed the closure, which has led to significant congestion in the area.

Motorists are advised to seek alternative routes as traffic builds up. In response to the closure, Bristol City Council announced that the Clean Air Zone has been switched off to accommodate diversions. This measure aims to ease the burden on drivers who may be rerouted through the zone.

To further assist drivers, cameras monitoring the Clean Air Zone will be suspended during the closure. If a vehicle is diverted due to planned roadworks into the Clean Air Zone and follows the signed diversion route, the driver will not incur the zone charge, according to Bristol City Council.

For those who have already paid a zone charge due to a diversion, there is an option to apply for a refund. Additionally, drivers who received a Penalty Charge Notice as a result of the road diversion can appeal the fine.

National Highways has provided 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.

The current state of the M5 closure is causing significant disruption for commuters and travelers in the region. The situation remains fluid as authorities work to address the welfare-related incident that prompted the closure.

This sequence of events is crucial for those involved, as it impacts daily commutes, travel plans, and local traffic conditions. The closure highlights the importance of timely communication and effective traffic management in response to unexpected incidents.

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The recent police incident on the M5 has raised concerns about traffic safety and management. The motorway was closed in both directions between Junction 18 (Avonmouth) and Junction 19 (Portbury), leading to significant delays for motorists.

Emergency services responded promptly to the scene, where the incident was described as welfare-related by police. This closure has resulted in delays of at least 110 minutes, causing frustration among drivers.

According to reports, approximately three miles of congestion was observed southbound and two miles northbound, with emergency services working to resolve the situation as quickly as possible.

Motorists have been advised to allow extra time for their journeys and to seek alternative routes during the closure. A diversion route has been established to help alleviate some of the congestion.

Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson stated, “The M5 was closed in both directions between junctions 18 (Avonmouth) and 19 (Portbury) due to a welfare-related incident.” They also expressed gratitude to motorists for their patience during the incident, saying, “We’d like to thank motorists for their patience and understanding while officers worked to bring it to a safe conclusion.”

As of now, the M5 is being fully reopened after the incident was resolved, but significant congestion remains in the area. Motorists are still advised to remain cautious and consider alternative routes if possible.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specifics of the welfare-related incident that prompted the police response. However, the swift action of emergency services has been crucial in managing the situation.

This incident highlights the importance of quick response from law enforcement and emergency services in ensuring the safety of all road users. The M5, a vital route for many, will continue to be monitored for any further developments.

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