M25 to close this weekend

Part of the M25 will be closed for the first time this weekend as National Highways plan to carry out extensive work. 

When and where will it be closed? 

The M25 will be closed in both directions between junctions 10 (A3 Wisley) and 11 (A320 Chertsey Interchange).  

The closure will take place from 9pm Friday 15 March to 6am Monday 18 March. 

What work is being done? 

The five– mile stretch of road is closed so National Highways can carry out improvement work. The plan is to demolish the Clearmount bridleway and install a large gantry.  

The aim of this is to improve traffic flow and make journeys safer by increasing the number of lanes. It will also make it easier to enter and exit the motorway by providing safer entry roads for Wilsey, Pyrford, Old Byfleet and RHS Wisley.  

It also aims to reduce pollution caused by traffic jams.  

Can you still travel? 

The rest of the motorway will be open as normal but the M25 and surrounding motorways are expected to experience some congestion as a result of the road closure. 

National Highways has set up diversions but has warned that traffic and disruptions are likely, and to only travel if necessary. Anyone travelling into or around London should plan their journey in advance and allow extra time in case of delays. 

National Highways has also warned that those travelling to Gatwick, Heathrow or the Channel ports may also be affected by delays and should plan ahead accordingly. 

Director of the RAC Foundation Steve Gooding has warned people to drive carefully saying: “the last thing we need is shunts or crashes, however minor, because the slightest mishap will compound the misery”.  

When are the next closures? 

There will be four more closures on the M25 between now and September 2024. The next closure is set to take place at some point in April, although no definitive dates have been announced yet.  

National Highways haven’t confirmed any further dates or which parts of the motorway will be affected but have said that the works will not conflict with holiday periods or other key events in the area. 

If you’re planning a road trip that goes on or around the M25, check out our blog on tips for road trips with kids.