Motorway M25 Lighting Switch-Off Delayed After Public Outcry
Plans to switch off motorway lights between junctions 27 and 28 on the M25 have been postponed. National Highways pulled the plug on the controversial trial after locals and MP Julia Lopez raised serious safety concerns.
Trial Halted Amid Safety Fears
The trial was set to kick off on August 11, aiming to turn off lights from Theydon Interchange to Brentwood and save taxpayers’ cash. But National Highways confirmed to the Recorder that the start date is now on ice. Teams are still scrambling to “secure the roadworks needed” for the planned switch-off. No new date has been confirmed.
Safety vs Savings: National Highways Responds
Officials say the trial is part of a bigger push to see if permanent lighting is really necessary everywhere on the network. A spokesperson insisted:
“Safety is our top priority, and we must spend taxpayers’ money where it will have greatest benefit to road users. We will only remove lighting if we are satisfied it is safe to do so after a trial period of operating with the lights switched off.”
They also confirmed that junctions and slip roads would keep their lights on throughout the trial.
Local MP Demands Answers
Hornchurch and Upminster MP Julia Lopez has stepped in, writing to National Highways and scheduling a meeting with officials next week. She told us:
“I’m worried about the potential impact. I want to know the full details of how they’ve assessed the safety of this move, including how many serious accidents happened when the lights were in use.”
Crashmap data reveals 33 casualties occurred between junctions 27 and 28 from 2014 to 2023 – sparking further concerns.
Traffic Surge Could Spell Trouble
With traffic expected to surge by 30% by 2037—more than 9,000 vehicles an hour through junction 28 at peak times—critics worry that switching off the lights could spell disaster for road safety.
What’s Next?
The year-long trial will compare night-time accident stats with data from the past five years to see if turning off the lights worsens safety. National Highways stresses the final decision won’t come until the trial ends and safety is guaranteed.
