M4 fuel protests set to cause major disruption - live updates

Motorists have been warned to expect disruption on Monday as planned fuel protests are set to take place. The M4 was quiet at 6am, but police are preparing for "serious disruption".

The protest against soaring fuel costs is set to be centred around the Prince of Wales Bridge, which is expected to be blocked in both directions.

Protests across the UK will target mainly three-lane motorways and could see slow-downs on two lanes, leaving the fast lane free, according to FairFuelUK founder Howard Cox. While he said his organisation is not involved in the action, he is "fully supportive" of the demonstrations so long as they are conducted legally.

Drivers have been advised by Gwent Police Chief Superintendent Tom Harding to work from home where possible and avoid the area between 7am and 7pm, with protestors planning to block parts of the road between M4 Magor services, junction 23A eastbound, and Junction 20 of the M4 between those hours.

Read more:Police warning of severe disruption from M4 Severn Bridge protest

Officers from both Gwent Police and Avon and Somerset Police will be in attendance at the protest to ensure it is carried out in line with the law. Plans are also being made with emergency and critical services to reduce disruption, and Bristol Airport has issued a warning urging travellers to allow extra time if heading to or from the airport.

Other junctions along the M4 are also reported to be affected with councils being warned there could be issues at junction 36 for Sarn and junction 47 Penllergaer is likely to be affected.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak has said he will carefully consider calls for a "more substantial" fuel duty cut after the 5p per litre reduction implemented in March failed to halt price rises.

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