National Highways has cautioned drivers about potential long delays and advised them to limit travel unless “absolutely necessary”. This closure marks the beginning of five planned closures until September 2024, aimed at facilitating significant improvements to the Junction 10 area.
National Highways will shut the M25 in both directions between junctions 10 (A3 Wisley) and 11 (A320 Chertsey Interchange) from 9pm Friday 15 March to 6am Monday 18 March 2024 to demolish the Clearmount bridleway bridge and install a very large gantry.
The Junction 10 improvement scheme will see an increase in the number of lanes to make journeys safer and improve traffic flow. It will also make it easier and safer to enter and exit the M25, provide safer entry roads for Wisley, Pyrford, Old Byfleet and RHS Wisley. It will also reduce the pollution caused by traffic jams.
The forthcoming closure is due to the need to demolish the Clearmount Bridleway Bridge and install a large gantry as part of the Junction 10 improvement scheme. The project aims to increase carriageway capacity, improve traffic flow, improve access to the M25 and reduce pollution caused by congestion.
Jonathan Wade, National Highways Project Lead, stressed the importance of minimizing unnecessary travel during this period due to anticipated heavy congestion and delays. The closures have been planned for months, with diversion routes in place, but disruptions are still expected.
The closure is vital for the safety of road users and the successful execution of the improvement scheme, which is scheduled for completion in Summer 2025. National Highways has strategically planned the closures to avoid conflicts with holidays and major events in the region.
Looking ahead, the next full closure of the M25 is slated for April, facilitating the installation of the new Clearmount bridleway bridge. However, dates are subject to change.
Commenting, Jonathan Wade, National Highways Project Lead, said:
“Drivers should only use the M25 if their journey is absolutely necessary. This is the first of five full closures of one of the busiest junctions on our road network. We have spent months planning for these closures and making sure there are diversion routes in place, but there will still be heavy congestion and delays. These improvements will bring long-term benefits to drivers who pass through this stretch of the M25, not to mention pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders who will also see positive changes in the area.”
In addition to the ongoing project, plans are in place to construct the Cockcrow Green Bridge later this year. This landmark project will be the UK’s first heathland bridge, connecting Ockham and Wisley commons, providing a safe passage for local wildlife.
Motorists are encouraged to stay updated on real-time traffic information via trafficengland.com and @NationalHways on Twitter.
Closure information will also be available on satellite navigation systems.