As the second full closure of a section of the M25 commences this weekend, drivers are being warned of three additional closures before the year’s end, accompanied by strict enforcement of Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) fines.
The ongoing £317 million improvement project will lead to the closure of the M25 in both directions between Junctions 9 (for Leatherhead) and 10 (for the A3) in Surrey from 9 pm on Friday (May 10) until 6 am on Monday (May 13). This closure aims to facilitate the installation of concrete beams for a new bridge and a gantry.
Motorists are advised to steer clear of the area if possible, as diversion routes will lead through a 19-mile journey on A roads, entering London’s ULEZ charge zone. However, adherence to the specified diversion routes will exempt drivers from ULEZ charges, regardless of their vehicle’s compliance status.
National Highways has issued a stern warning, stating that drivers disregarding diversion signs in search of shorter alternative routes will incur a daily ULEZ fee of £12.50 if their vehicle fails to meet minimum emissions standards. Failure to pay the charge can result in a hefty £180 fine, reduced to £90 if settled within 14 days.
Jonathan Wade, senior project manager at National Highways, emphasized that while ULEZ cameras will be active, no enforcement action will be taken against vehicles adhering to diversion routes. However, drivers deviating from these routes risk detection by ULEZ cameras, potentially leading to fines.
With concerns over Sat Navs directing drivers onto minor roads post-exit from the M25, National Highways remains vigilant to prevent traffic congestion in residential areas.
Following this weekend’s closure, three more weekend closures are scheduled between August and the year’s end, with specific dates to be confirmed. The August closure, coinciding with the school summer holiday period, is expected to impact travel significantly.
Despite a successful first closure between Junctions 10 and 11 in March, with traffic levels significantly lower than usual, authorities warn of complacency among motorists and urge careful planning of journeys during upcoming closures.
While disruptions are anticipated, Mr. Wade assured that work on the Junction 10 improvements can be paused if necessary to ensure the M25 reopens promptly on Monday morning.
The project, slated for completion in summer 2025, aims to enhance the M25’s capacity and accessibility at Junction 10, addressing safety concerns and traffic congestion at one of the UK’s busiest motorway junctions.
