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M32 motorway facts for kids

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M32 motorway shield

M32 motorway
Location of the M32 in Bristol (in blue)
The M32 between junctions 2 and 1, heading northwards
Route information
Length 4.4 mi (7.1 km)
Existed 1966–present
History Constructed 1966 – 1975:
  • M4 – J1 (1966)
  • J1 – J2 (1970)
  • J2 – J3 (1975)
Major junctions
From Hambrook
  Junction 19.svg UK-Motorway-M4.svg
J19 → M4 motorway
To St Pauls
Road network
  • Roads in the United Kingdom
M27 M40

The M32 is a short, special road called a motorway. It is located in Bristol and Gloucestershire, England. This road helps connect Bristol to the larger M4. It is one of the shortest motorways in the United Kingdom. The M32 is about 4.4 miles (7.1 kilometers) long.

What is the M32 Motorway?

The M32 is a busy road that helps people travel quickly. It acts like a direct link between the city of Bristol and the M4 motorway. The M4 is a major road that connects London to South Wales. The M32 makes it easier for traffic to get in and out of Bristol.

Building the M32

The M32 motorway was built in different stages. Construction started in 1966 and finished in 1975.

The first part to open was between the M4 and Junction 1 in 1966. Then, the section from Junction 1 to Junction 2 opened in 1970. Finally, the last part, from Junction 2 to Junction 3, was completed in 1975. This step-by-step building helped connect the city over time.

Key Connections Along the M32

The M32 has several important exits, called junctions. These junctions allow drivers to get on and off the motorway.

Northern End: Connecting to the M4

The M32 starts at its northern end by connecting to the M4 motorway. This is at a place called Junction 19 on the M4. From here, you can go towards London and Swindon on the M4 East. You can also go towards South Wales, the South West, and the Midlands on the M4 West. This connection is very important for long-distance travel.

Junction 1: Filton and Kingswood

Junction 1 is the first exit when you head south into Bristol. It connects to areas like Filton and Kingswood. This junction also links to the A4174, which is a ring road around Bristol. A ring road helps traffic go around a city instead of through its center.

Junction 2: Stapleton and Fishponds

Further south, you reach Junction 2. This exit serves areas such as Stapleton, Frenchay, Horfield, and Fishponds. It helps local traffic move around these parts of Bristol.

Southern End: Into Bristol City Centre

The M32 officially ends at Junction 3. From here, the road continues as the A4320. This road leads directly into the City Centre. You can also connect to other main roads like the A4 to Bath and the A431.

Motorway and the Environment

The M32 passes close to Stoke Park. This is a large historic estate with beautiful grounds. When the motorway was built, some of the park's land was used for the road. This caused some discussion at the time.

Bristol M32 Motorway 01
The M32 between junctions 2 and 1, heading northwards.

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