This weekend, a significant section of the M25, the UK’s busiest motorway, will experience its first full closure since opening in 1986, affecting drivers in Surrey. The closure, spanning five miles between junctions 10 and 11, is scheduled from 9pm on Friday until 6am on Monday. The reason behind this unprecedented move is to allow for roadworks, including the demolition of a bridge and the installation of a new gantry. This closure is part of a larger project aimed at upgrading the junction 10 area of the M25, with completion expected by summer 2025.

National Highways, overseeing the closure, estimates that the diversion will add up to an additional hour to travel times. Typically, the closed segment sees a flow of 4,000-6,000 vehicles per hour during weekends. Motorists have been advised to avoid the area if possible, follow official diversion routes diligently, and not to rely solely on satellite navigation systems which might direct them onto minor roads, exacerbating local congestion.

The decision to close this section has raised concerns among local residents, businesses, and councillors. There are fears of significant disruptions, traffic chaos in local villages, and potential negative impacts on local businesses due to reduced accessibility and cancellations. National Highways and local authorities have emphasized the importance of the infrastructure improvements despite the temporary challenges faced by communities along the diversion route.

In addition to this weekend’s closure, further daytime closures are planned until September as part of the ongoing project. National Highways has urged drivers to plan their journeys in advance and to anticipate delays, while local stakeholders brace for the impact of the diverted traffic.