M53 lanes narrowed to 1.98 metres for overnight bridge replacement

Megan Gilks Posted On July 22, 2026

41 Views

National Highways has introduced temporary traffic management and speed limit on the M53 in Wirral to allow the replacement of Upton Road Bridge and associated maintenance works.

The scheme includes a temporary 50mph speed limit, overnight carriageway and slip road closures, and lane width restrictions between junctions 1 and 3 while work is carried out.

The 50mph speed limit applies on sections of both the northbound and southbound carriageways approaching Upton Road Bridge, including the J3 northbound entry slip and the J2 southbound entry slip.

Overnight closures will affect:

Northbound carriageway between the J3 off-slip and J2 on-slip
Southbound carriageway between the J2 off-slip and J3 on-slip
J3 northbound entry slip
J3 southbound exit slip
J2 southbound entry slip
J2 northbound exit slip

Lane two on both carriageways will also be subject to a width restriction of 1.98 metres in the vicinity of Upton Road Bridge.

National Highways said signed diversion routes will be in place via alternative M53 junctions and local roads whenever overnight closures are required. The restrictions will only apply when indicated by traffic signs.

A National Highways spokesperson said the decision to replace the bridge’s central span was taken after considering the impact on both local communities and road users.

The spokesperson added that replacing the central span is “quicker, safer and more practical” than carrying out repairs to the existing structure.

Explore more: Visit our Civil Engineering and Structures section for the latest updates on workforce trends, industry developments, and recruitment across the UK traffic management sector.