A significant section of the M25 in Surrey, between junctions 10 and 11, will be closed for the entire weekend, a move that is expected to affect thousands of motorists and local businesses. This closure, marking the first scheduled daytime shutdown of all lanes on the M25 since its opening in 1986, is part of a £317 million junction 10 improvement scheme set to be completed in mid-2025. The closure facilitates the demolition of a bridge and the installation of a new gantry, with approximately 270,000 drivers who typically use this route on a weekday being advised to seek alternative means of transportation.

With the M25 being a crucial artery for various activities, including airport transfers and sports events, the anticipated impact includes potential delays of up to five hours for vehicles, extensive disruption to local businesses, and modifications to plans for local events and hospital visits. Authorities and National Highways are urging drivers to only use the M25 if absolutely necessary and to consider alternative transportation methods like trains.

Local businesses along the 11.5-mile diversion route are bracing for significant disruption. Some express concerns over reduced access to essential services and anticipate a downturn in turnover due to decreased customer visits. However, others like the Black Prince pub in Addlestone see potential benefits from the increased traffic.

This weekend’s closure is the first of five planned daytime closures up to September, part of efforts to upgrade one of the UK’s busiest and most hazardous motorway junctions. National Highways and local authorities are taking measures to mitigate the impact on traffic and the local community, urging drivers to avoid using minor roads as alternatives to prevent congestion.