Drivers using the M25, one of the UK’s busiest motorways, should prepare for significant disruption as a section near junction 10 (Wisley) closes for three weekends in March and April. The closures are part of a £317 million upgrade, which has already faced delays.
Key Closures and Expected Impact
The affected section runs through Surrey near the A3 and is a major route to both Gatwick and Heathrow airports. The work will involve slip road closures and two full motorway shutdowns, increasing travel time and diverting traffic onto local roads. British Airways has warned passengers to allow extra time for their journeys.
The motorway will be fully closed in both directions between junctions 10 and 11 on:
- March 7–10
- March 21–24
All slip roads between these junctions will also be closed from 9pm on February 21 to 6am on February 24.
Additionally, the A3 will shut between junction 10 and Cobham roundabout from April 11–13.
Project Delays and Ongoing Disruption
The junction 10 upgrade, which began in 2022, was originally scheduled for completion by summer 2024. However, National Highways recently confirmed a nine-month delay due to "extreme weather," pushing the completion date to spring 2026.
Despite the setbacks, Jonathan Wade, senior project manager at National Highways, stated that progress is being made:
"We are already seeing benefits from this project, which will reduce congestion, improve traffic flow, and make journeys safer for thousands of drivers every day."
However, Steve Gooding, director of the RAC Foundation, acknowledged the frustration for motorists:
"Drivers who have endured years of queues and roadworks must now prepare for another summer, autumn, and winter of disruption."
Advice for Motorists
Shaun Jones, AA Patrol of the Year, urged drivers to plan ahead and allow extra time:
- Use the AA Route Planner to check for alternative routes.
- Avoid the western side of the M25 if possible.
- Stick to official diversion routes.
- Ensure your vehicle is prepared – check oil, coolant, tyres, and fuel/charge levels before setting off.
While National Highways has confirmed that no further full M25 closures are planned after these works, congestion is expected to remain an issue until the project is fully completed.
