Brace Yourself: M25 Set for Full Weekend Shutdown Between Junctions 10 and 11
Motorists face chaos this weekend as the M25 will be completely closed between Junction 10 (Wisley) and Junction 11 (Chertsey) from 9pm Friday, March 7 until 6am Monday, March 10. The shutdown is essential for major bridge demolition as part of the £317 million Junction 10 upgrade, aimed at slashing congestion and boosting safety on one of Britain’s busiest and most treacherous motorway spots.
Where and When: What You Need to Know About the Closure
- The entire M25 carriageway between Junction 10 and Junction 11 will be closed in both directions.
- All entry and exit slip roads at Junction 10 will also shut down.
- Expect heavy delays on surrounding A-roads including the A3, A245, and A320 as drivers seek alternate routes.
National Highways urges drivers to steer clear of the area unless absolutely necessary.
Why the Shutdown? Essential Work to Demolish Bridge
The closure is necessary to demolish an ageing bridge as part of the ongoing revamp of Junction 10 — a notorious bottleneck handling around 300,000 vehicles daily. The upgrade, launched in 2022, will:
- Expand lanes to ease gridlock.
- Revamp entry and exit points to improve safety and fluidity.
- Install new pedestrian and cyclist crossings.
“Closing the M25 for an entire weekend is frustrating, but it’s crucial for long-term gains. This work will reduce journey times and make the junction much safer,” said Jonathan Wade, senior project manager at National Highways.
Originally due for completion in summer 2025, severe 2024 weather delays have pushed the finish line to spring 2026.
How to Get Around: Official Diversion Routes and Travel Tips
Clockwise Diversion (Junction 10 to 11)
- Exit at J10 and follow the A3 northbound towards Painshill.
- Take the A245 through Byfleet and West Byfleet.
- Continue on the A320 to rejoin the M25 at J11 (Chertsey).
Anti-clockwise Diversion (Junction 11 to 10)
- Exit at J11 and head south on the A320.
- Follow the A245 through West Byfleet and Byfleet.
- Join the A3 southbound at Painshill to re-enter the M25 at J10 (Wisley).
Drivers should avoid relying on satnavs, which may send you down unsuitable minor roads and worsen delays.
“Stick to these diversion routes. Satnav shortcuts could cause chaos on local roads unsuitable for heavy traffic,” warned Jonathan Wade.
For longer trips, consider the Dartford Crossing or switching to public transport.
More M25 Closures Coming
This won’t be the last full M25 closure this year. National Highways confirms another weekend shutdown between Junctions 10 and 11 from 9pm Friday, March 21 to 6am Monday, March 24 for further bridge demolition.
“The disruption is frustrating, but if the work delivers smoother traffic flow and a safer junction, it’ll be worth it. Drivers should plan ahead and avoid non-essential travel,” said RAC Foundation director Steve Gooding.
Airport Travel Alert: Heathrow and Gatwick Watch Out
If you’re heading to London Heathrow or Gatwick Airport, expect delays thanks to this closure. Several National Express routes will face disruptions, including:
- 025 – Worthing to London via Brighton, Gatwick, and Heathrow
- 200 – Bristol to Gatwick via Heathrow
- 201 – Swansea to Gatwick via Cardiff, Bristol, Heathrow
- 205 – Poole to Gatwick via Bournemouth, Southampton, Heathrow
Passengers should check National Express live service updates for real-time information.
“We’re working with National Highways to keep services running, but expect longer journey times, especially on airport routes,” said a National Express spokesperson.
Top Tips for Drivers This Weekend
- Avoid travelling unless absolutely necessary.
- Use official diversion routes and build in extra travel time.
- Check live traffic updates before you set off.
- Consider alternative transport, like trains, if possible.
“This section of the UK’s busiest motorway will be shut for a whole weekend – and again later this month. If you must travel, plan ahead and allow extra time, especially if catching a flight,” advised Rhydian Jones, car insurance expert at Confused.com.
Final Word: Patience Now for Smoother Journeys Later
National Highways thanks drivers for their patience during this disruptive but vital upgrade.
“We’re in the final push of the project. We know this is inconvenient, but once complete, journeys will be faster and safer for everyone,” concluded Jonathan Wade.
Stay updated with live traffic info at National Highways or via local travel news before setting out.
