TRAFFIC queues on the M5 near Bristol are expected to be reduced as new measures are put in place to control congestion.

This new scheme is being trialled while a more long term solution to widen the slip road where it meets the roundabout at junction 19, for Portishead, is under development.

The plans include changes to the signing and lining on the southbound exit slip road.

Highways England project sponsor Sean Walsh said: “We absolutely understand the frustration of drivers who use this junction and experience regular queuing, especially at peak times.

“That is why we have decided to do something now rather than wait for the long-term solution to be developed.

“We are already working hard on plans for the permanent scheme, which is due for delivery in the winter 2017-2018, but in the meantime we hope the new signing and lining will reduce the queues, and the better use of the slip road will discourage people from attempting to join the queue late to access currently empty lanes.”

The changes mean that traffic heading towards Portishead will have two lanes to use, rather than one.

The work will take place overnight and will require lane closures on the roundabout and a closure of the southbound exit slip road between 8pm on Sunday June 25 and 6am on Monday June 26.

While the slip road is closed a fully signed diversion will be in place. This will be via the M5 southbound to the junction 20 exit and return back to junction 19 on the M5 northbound.

Highways England advises drivers that this could add 13 minutes to their journey times.