The M25 motorway in Surrey is experiencing significant disruptions due to an “unprecedented” closure between junctions 10 and 11, impacting drivers since Friday evening. This five-mile stretch of one of the UK’s busiest motorways, accommodating over 300,000 vehicles daily at junction 10, has been shut for the first scheduled daytime closure since its opening in 1986. The closure, which is part of a £317m upgrade plan expected to be completed in 2025, aims to enhance safety and efficiency at one of the country’s most dangerous junctions. This involves demolishing an existing bridge, installing a new gantry, and is scheduled to reopen on Monday morning.

Drone footage has captured workers diligently progressing with the demolition and installation tasks, despite causing significant traffic buildup and long queues on diversion routes. Authorities, including National Highways, have urged drivers to avoid the affected section, cautioning about extended disruptions, especially with two-mile queues reported and an average diversion journey time of 25 minutes.

Local businesses along the diversion route, like Billy Tong, anticipate potential losses due to the traffic disruptions. Despite these concerns and the mixed public reactions, including some locals taking selfies on the deserted motorway stretch, National Highways reports “good progress” on the work and suggests that the traffic situation has been better than initially feared.

This closure marks the beginning of several planned disruptions, with four more closures anticipated between now and September as part of the ongoing efforts to improve the M25’s infrastructure. Motorists have been advised to stay updated with National Highways for travel advice and to use the motorway only if absolutely necessary during these times.