A new Highways Agency traffic filtering system on the M48 Severn Crossing designed to reduce the number of occasions when the crossing is closed to all vehicles due to high winds, has proved a success.

When wind speeds exceed 40 knots, the crossing remains open only to vehicles under 6'9" (2.1m). Vehicles over this height and motorcycles are not permitted to use the bridge and are diverted to the M4 Second Severn Crossing. If wind speeds reach 60 knots the bridge is closed to all traffic.

Filtering has been used four times in the last eight days and the system worked well. Advance warning signs were displayed on the approaches to the Crossing and Highways Agency Traffic Officers provided a high visibility presence to help reinforce the changes.

Traffic Officer Operations Manager, Gill Risdale said: "The introduction of the filtering system went smoothly with drivers complying with the new requirements. We can now keep the crossing open to smaller vehicles for longer, whilst still operating safely during high winds."

Drivers of vehicles over 6'9" and motorcyclists who ignore the advice will be committing an offence and may face prosecution. If drivers do not comply with the signs, then for the safety of all users, the M48 Crossing may have to be closed to all traffic at wind speeds over 40 knots.

Filtering operates between 6am and 10pm. Outside of these times the crossing will be closed to all traffic if the wind is above 40 knots.