As motorists brace themselves for another round of M25 closures, authorities have issued warnings of potential long delays during the shutdown. The closure, scheduled from May 10 at 9pm until May 13 at 6am, will affect the stretch between junctions nine and ten in Surrey.
This closure marks the second of five planned weekend shutdowns of the M25, forming part of a £317 million initiative aimed at improving junction ten. Concrete beams for a new bridge and gantry will be lifted into place during this period, necessitating the closure.
During the closure, motorists will be diverted along a 19-mile route using the A3 and A243. Notably, drivers following the signed diversion route will not be subject to Ultra Low Emission Zone (Ulez) charges, although Ulez will remain in effect on all other London routes.
Jonathan Wade, senior project manager at National Highways, stressed the importance of heeding advice to reduce traffic levels and minimize delays. He emphasized that the upcoming closure will feature longer diversion routes, particularly for over-height vehicles.
The closure aims to facilitate the installation of a new bridge comprising 68 beams, each weighing 16 tonnes, along with four additional beams weighing 40 tonnes. Officials expect significant traffic disruption and urge drivers to avoid the affected stretch if possible.
The project, set for completion in the summer 2025, aims to enhance traffic flow and safety at one of the UK’s busiest and most hazardous motorway junctions. With up to 270,000 vehicles passing through the junction on weekdays, the closure poses a considerable logistical challenge for commuters and businesses alike.
As preparations for the closure intensify, National Highways is collaborating with emergency services, local authorities, and airports to mitigate the impact on residents, travellers, and businesses. Motorists are advised to plan their journeys and explore alternative travel options during the closure.
While further closures are planned between July and December, National Highways has confirmed no weekend closures will occur in June. Dates for the remaining closures will be announced following the May closure.
As drivers prepare for potential disruptions, authorities urge cooperation and adherence to diversion routes to ensure the smooth execution of essential infrastructure upgrades.
