Lorry strikes Brynglas Tunnel causing 45-minute delays

There are major delays on the M4 near Newport as a lorry has struck one of the Brynglas Tunnels. The westbound tunnel was closed for two hours so safety inspections could be carried out leading delays of 45-minute delays in the Newport area.

The tunnel re-opened at 2.25pm, after those safety checks, but long delays remain on the motorway and surrounding routes around Newport.

Traffic monitoring system Inrix says: "Long delays due to earlier tunnel struck by vehicle on M4 Brynglas Tunnel westbound between junction 25A A4042 (Newport / Cwmbran) and junction 26 A4051 (Malpas Road)."

Congestion was back to junction 24 Coldra and surrounding routes around Newport were "heavily congested", but by just after 3pm traffic had returned to normal for the time of day.

Gwent Police had said: "We've received reports of debris on the M4, therefore the Brynglas Tunnel Westbound is closed. Our officers are working with partners to ensure the road is cleared as soon as possible. Please avoid the area and find alternative routes for your journey."

A post from Traffic Wales showed workers in the tunnel before it re-opened. They said: ""We've completed electrical and structural inspections, cleared debris, and ensured the tunnel is safe - all within just two hours. An impressive turnaround for such a critical route. Thank you to all involved for your swift and professional response"

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