Planned improvement works and recent incidents are causing significant traffic disruptions on the M25, affecting thousands of motorists across the South East.
The M25, a key artery in the UK’s motorway network, is facing significant disruptions due to planned improvement works and recent incidents, causing concern for motorists across the South East.
In Surrey, a crucial stretch of the M25 between junctions 10 and 11 will be undergoing improvement works aimed at enhancing safety and traffic flow, particularly at the M25-A3 intersection. Jonathan Wade, senior project manager for National Highways, emphasized the need for these works due to the junction’s current insufficiency and high collision rate. Motorists are advised to avoid the area, seek alternative modes of transport, or engage in home-based activities. The works mark the beginning of five scheduled weekend closures of the M25 this year, with further assessments planned before additional closures. National Highways has provided diversion routes but warns of possible delays.
Another incident causing traffic disruption occurred at the Dartford Crossing, where Essex Police temporarily closed the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge for over four hours due to concerns for a man’s welfare. Traffic was diverted through the Dartford Tunnel, resulting in severe delays in both directions. The closure, which started shortly after 6 am, ended at 10:30 am when the bridge was reopened. The police confirmed the man involved is now safe and thanked the public for their patience during the incident.
Further complicating traffic conditions, the M25 is set to experience its first daytime closure for construction work as part of a £317m project. The closure will affect a five-mile section between junctions 9 and 11 over the weekend, with significant disruptions anticipated. This marks the first complete shutdown of all lanes on the M25 since its opening in 1986, necessitated by the upgrading of infrastructure including increased lanes and improved entry roads. An estimated 200,000 vehicles, including those heading to London airports and Channel ports, are expected to be affected. Alternative routes and transport options are recommended, with RAC spokesperson Alice Simpson highlighting the importance of planning to mitigate the impact of the closures.
These developments signify a challenging period for motorists in the region, with authorities urging drivers to consider diversion routes, plan their journeys meticulously, and adjust travel plans to navigate the anticipated traffic turmoil on the M25.