A46 Gloucestershire Closure: Major Disruption Due to Motorcycle Crash, Travelers Advised to Reroute, What You Need To Know

Published on November 28, 2025

A major disruption is currently affecting road traffic in Gloucestershire. The A46 in South Gloucestershire has been closed in both directions due to a serious collision between a motorbike and a car. The incident occurred between the M4 junction 18 and A420 on Friday morning, November 28. As of now, authorities have not confirmed when the road will reopen, and delays are expected for both locals and travelers.

Incident Overview and Immediate Impact

The crash has caused significant disruption, particularly impacting business travel and tourists in the area. The collision involves a motorcycle and a car, and emergency services, including Avon and Somerset Police, are on site, working alongside National Highways officers to manage the situation. With the closure of the A46, drivers are facing long delays as the situation is being dealt with.

National Highways has issued a step-by-step diversion route to help those affected by the roadblock. However, given the unexpected nature of the crash and the absence of an official diversion in place, travelers are urged to plan their routes in advance to avoid the area.

Diversion Routes for A46 Travelers

For those traveling in or through the Gloucestershire region, National Highways recommends the following diversion route:

1. Join the M4 Eastbound at Junction 18: Travelers can take the M4 heading east from the A46 junction 18.
2. Continue on M4 to Junction 17: Proceed along the M4 eastbound to Junction 17.
3. Exit M4 at Junction 17: Take the exit at Junction 17, then head south on the A350.
4. Follow the A350 for 3.4 miles: This will lead drivers to the A420.
5. Continue on A420 for 5 miles: From here, drivers can either continue their journey eastward or head westbound on the A4 towards Bath.

This diversion is designed to alleviate some of the traffic pressure and ensure that drivers can still reach their destinations, albeit with delays. Travelers are encouraged to allow extra time for their journeys, especially during the morning rush hour.

Delays for Local Business and Tourists

The ongoing road closure has a significant impact not only on local commuters but also on business travelers and tourists in the region. Gloucestershire, known for its rich historical sites and picturesque landscapes, attracts many visitors throughout the year. The closure of the A46 is likely to disrupt travel plans for tourists heading to popular destinations such as Bath, Bristol, and Cheltenham.

For tourists, this means that certain routes to key attractions may be temporarily inaccessible or slower than usual. Travelers planning to visit these areas should factor in extra travel time, and it’s advised to check live traffic updates before departing. Tourists can consult local traffic management websites or apps like the National Highways website for real-time updates.

What Travelers Should Know:

• Business Impact: Business travelers using the A46 for daily commutes or meetings may experience delays. They should plan alternative routes or leave earlier to avoid missing appointments.
• Tourist Impact: Tourists who rely on the A46 to visit destinations such as Bath or Bristol may face delays or be forced to alter their travel plans. Local hotels and tourist attractions may also experience a slight drop in visitor numbers during this period.
• Travel Tips: It’s highly recommended that travelers use live traffic apps, like Google Maps or Waze, for real-time traffic updates and alternative route suggestions. Always plan ahead and check for any official advice from National Highways or local authorities before setting off.
• Safety Precautions: Authorities are working to resolve the incident, but delays are expected. Drivers should stay patient, follow the diversion routes carefully, and avoid attempting to drive through the closure zone. Pedestrian access and cycling lanes are also affected, so it’s best to stay updated with local advisories.

Step-by-Step Travel Tips for A46 Road Closure:

1. Check Traffic Updates: Visit official sources like National Highways or local government websites to track the status of the road closure.
2. Plan Alternate Routes: Use the recommended diversion routes if your journey takes you through South Gloucestershire. Ensure that your travel apps are updated with live traffic data.
3. Leave Early: Given the expected delays, leaving earlier than usual will help you avoid rush hour traffic and ensure that you reach your destination on time.
4. Be Patient and Safe: Stay patient and follow the guidance of local authorities and National Highways. Adhering to safety measures will help prevent accidents and ensure smoother traffic flow during the closure.
5. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on local news channels or government websites for the latest updates on the situation and any changes to the closure or diversion routes.

Conclusion

For travelers heading through or into Gloucestershire today, it is crucial to be aware of the ongoing A46 road closure. Whether you’re a local commuter, a business traveler, or a tourist, the road closure due to the motorbike and car collision is causing significant delays. Travelers are advised to follow diversion routes, plan extra time for their journeys, and stay updated with live traffic information to avoid inconvenience.

As National Highways and local authorities work to resolve the incident, it is essential for everyone to remain patient and prioritize safety on the road. For tourists, this disruption is a reminder to always check the latest traffic updates and consult with local travel advisories to ensure smooth and stress-free travel.

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated