M25 weekend closure: drivers told to expect ‘incredibly busy’ routes

Motorists should be prepared for traffic jams this weekend as a section of the M25 will be closed for the third time in 2021.

This weekend, there will be a lot of traffic on the main roads in the south-east because National Highways is closing a part of London's circular highway for construction work. The closure will be in both directions between junctions 10 and 11 in Surrey from 9pm on Friday until 6am on Monday, according to the AA.

The upcoming weekend closure at a busy intersection along the M25 motorway coincides with the expected influx of football fans traveling to Berlin for the Euro 2024 final between England and Spain. This closure may cause delays for England supporters traveling to Dover for cross-Channel trips or heading to London to watch the game.

The expressway is frequented by people flying to, from, and between the UK's top two airports, Heathrow and Gatwick, as well as by families exploring nearby attractions like Legoland and Thorpe Park.

Chris Wood, who was named the AA's top patrol of the year, mentioned that there will be a lot of traffic in and around London due to many football fans adjusting their plans after England's win against Holland.

Drivers should make sure to plan their trip ahead of time and try to avoid the western section of the M25 if they can. It's also a good idea to check the websites of ferry and tunnel operators for any updates before starting your journey.

Between Junctions 9 and 11, there is usually a steady flow of 4,000-6,000 vehicles in both directions from 10am to 9pm on weekends.

A total of £317 million is being allocated to upgrade junction 10, which will involve building a new bridge on the roundabout at this location.

The M25 had its first scheduled daytime closure in March, which was the first of its kind since it was opened in 1986.

There were worries about traffic jams during the M25 closures in March and May, but long lines of cars did not happen because many drivers chose to steer clear of the affected area.

Jonathan Wade, a senior project manager for National Highways, is advising drivers to avoid using GPS directions that may lead them through residential neighborhoods. He is concerned that deviating from the designated diversion route could result in even more traffic congestion.

There are only two more weekends left for the project to finish later this year. The construction is expected to be done by summer 2025, which will result in more lanes at junction 10.