Will the Cabinet Secretary provide an updated timescale for when the works on the M48 and A40 to fix the defective barrier are due to begin?
Design work continues for both replacement schemes. Barrier replacement on the A40 is planned for this financial year (25/26). Once complete the speed limit will revert to the national speed limit.
We are reconsidering the programme on the M48 due to the weight restriction coming into force on the M48 bridge. We will continue to liaise with National Highways to ensure that the renewal of the safety barrier systems is programmed for the earliest possible opportunity. We will continue to develop the barrier replacement scheme during this financial year (25/26). The speed limit will remain at 50mph until such time as the barrier is replaced.