Three more weekend closures of the M25 will occur between August and the end of the year as part of a major roadworks project, slated for completion in summer 2025. Diversion routes will take cars on a 19-mile journey on A roads, crossing into London’s ultra-low emission zone (Ulez) area. Motorists will be subjected to Ulez rules if they deviate from official diversion routes, risking a £12.50 daily fee for non-compliance, with fines of up to £180 for failure to pay. The closures are needed for lifting new bridge elements into place on the M25 between Junctions 9 and 10 in Surrey.
There are concerns that some drivers may be directed onto minor roads by their sat navs after leaving the M25, potentially triggering Ulez cameras on those routes and causing gridlock in residential areas. Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, extended Ulez to cover the entire capital in 2021, and this weekend’s closure is the second of five planned for the M25. Despite fears of overwhelming diversion routes, the first closure saw significantly reduced traffic levels due to an awareness campaign.
National Highways have warned motorists not to ignore diversion signs this weekend, as enforcement of Ulez cameras will be in effect. They urge drivers to follow the diversion routes to avoid any penalties. Additional segments of the M25 will also face disruptions for retrofitting emergency stopping areas on smart motorways. Planning ahead is crucial for drivers facing up to six days of disrupted travel as this closure coincides with national rail strikes, likely leading to increased traffic levels.
Overwhelmed diversion routes are a potential issue if motorists do not heed warnings to replan their journeys. National Highways advise drivers to avoid the area if possible and comply with diversion routes. Londoners making essential trips for work, healthcare, or airport visits are urged to check their vehicles and prepare for long delays. The multi-million pound project aims to improve access to and from Junction 10, one of the UK’s busiest and most dangerous motorway junctions, by increasing lanes and easing traffic flow.
Parents are taking advantage of summer school uniform sales at Tu Clothing, with items priced as low as 33p. The closures on the M25 are necessary for lifting concrete beams into place and retrofitting emergency stopping areas. The risk of being caught by Ulez cameras due to deviating from diversion routes raises concerns, as motorists may face fines for non-compliance. Despite warnings and efforts to inform drivers, disruptions are expected, particularly with concurrent national rail strikes leading to increased traffic. Planning and compliance with diversion routes are essential to avoid penalties and ensure smooth travel during these weekend closures.
