The M25 motorway in Surrey is set to reopen on Monday after its first-ever complete daytime closure, which surprisingly did not lead to the severe congestion many had anticipated. The planned closure, between junctions 10 and 11, was part of a significant project by National Highways South-East to upgrade one of the UK’s busiest and most dangerous motorway junctions. Despite initial concerns of gridlocked traffic, the diversion through local towns effectively managed the flow, resulting in only minor congestion and a quieter period for residents nearby.

The work, which included demolishing a bridge and installing a new gantry, is on schedule, with completion expected by summer 2025. This upgrade aims to increase the junction’s lane number, enhancing traffic flow and safety. Despite some congestion and a report of a two-mile tailback on the M20 in Kent due to an unrelated police incident, overall disruption was less than feared. Authorities had prepared for heavy traffic, with four more daytime closures planned up to September as part of ongoing improvements.

In a separate incident, travellers at Euston Station faced disruptions due to signalling problems, resulting in cancellations between Milton Keynes Central and London Euston. Overcrowding and a lack of information led to described chaos, although train lines reopened later in the day, continuing delays and possible cancellations.

The weekend’s events highlighted the challenges of managing transport infrastructure in the UK, particularly when key links like the M25 undergo necessary enhancements. Despite the potential for significant disruption, effective management and planning helped mitigate the impact on local communities and the travelling public.