A RIDGE 'like a sleeping policeman' which appeared suddenly on the M5 has been repaired following safety concerns.

The temporary fix to what was described as a 'significant' problem between junctions nine (Tewkesbury) and 10 (Cheltenham) southbound was carried out overnight last night to reduce disruption to motorists.

Investigations into the cause are ongoing and a more permanent solution will have to be found.

A spokesperson for Highways England said the ridge or bubble appeared in the hard shoulder and affected lanes one and two. The repairs were completed by 6.30am this morning.

There has been delays of up to 50 minutes becauseof the problem as drivers were caught in tailbacks.

The defect was reported at around 7.30pm last night and the M5 was closed between junctions eight and 11 while the repair was carried out which involved levelling out of the carriageway.

He said: “It was like a sleeping policeman and it was unsafe for cars going over that. It was levelled out to make sure it was safe. It is too early to say what has caused it.”

Contractors and geo-technical experts are continuing to investigate the cause. Diversion routes were put in place while the work was carried out.

He said: “They will find out what has happened and look at putting in a permanent solution. We are happy with the temporary solution.

"The carriageway is safe. The priority for us is safety so we have closed those lanes. There were some tailbacks but safety is the number one priority.”

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