M32 motorway facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
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Location of the M32 in Bristol (in blue)
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The M32 between junctions 2 and 1, heading northwards
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| Route information | ||||
| Length | 4.4 mi (7.1 km) | |||
| Existed | 1966–present | |||
| History | Constructed 1966 – 1975:
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| Major junctions | ||||
| From | Hambrook | |||
  J19 → M4 motorway |
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| To | St Pauls | |||
| Road network | ||||
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→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.
Contents
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.
Images for kids
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The northern section of the M32 connects to the M4 at a modified roundabout.
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The southern section of the M32 was the last to be built and passes close to numerous housing estates.
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The M32 has been criticized for passing close to Stoke Park and part of the estate grounds were given up for the motorway.
