Introduction
The M25, encircling London, is one of the UK’s busiest motorways, facilitating the movement of hundreds of thousands of vehicles daily. To enhance safety and reduce congestion, significant improvement works are scheduled, necessitating a series of closures in the coming months. This article provides detailed information on the planned closures, their impact, and essential advice for motorists.
Scheduled Closures and Diversions
February 21–24, 2025: Junction 10 Slip Roads Closure
From 9 pm on Friday, February 21, to 6 am on Monday, February 24, all entry and exit slip roads at Junction 10 (Wisley Interchange) will be closed. During this period, both the M25 and A3 main carriageways will remain open, but vehicles will not be able to enter or exit at Junction 10. Diversions will be in place to guide drivers to alternative routes.
March 7–10 and March 21–24, 2025: Full Closure Between Junctions 10 and 11
Two full weekend closures are planned between Junctions 10 (Wisley) and 11 (Chertsey):
- March 7, 9 pm – March 10, 6 am: Complete closure in both directions.
- March 21, 9 pm – March 24, 6 am: Complete closure in both directions.
These closures are necessary for the demolition and removal of old bridges as part of the ongoing improvement project. Motorists are advised to avoid this section of the M25 during these times and follow designated diversion routes.
April 11–14, 2025: A3 Closure North of Junction 10
From 9 pm on Friday, April 11, to 6 am on Monday, April 14, the A3 will be closed in both directions between Junction 10 and the Cobham Roundabout/A245. This closure facilitates essential works on the A3 and its integration with the M25. Drivers should plan alternative routes and expect potential delays.
Impact on Airport Travelers
These closures are expected to significantly impact travelers heading to Heathrow and Gatwick airports, as the affected sections are primary routes to these destinations. British Airways has issued advisories, urging passengers to plan their journeys carefully, allow extra time, and consider alternative routes or modes of transportation during the closure periods.
Reasons for the Closures
The improvement works at Junction 10 aim to enhance traffic flow, reduce congestion, and improve safety. The project includes adding extra lanes, demolishing outdated bridges, and constructing new structures for pedestrians, cyclists, and equestrians. Additionally, a unique wildlife corridor, the Cockcrow Green Bridge, is being established to support local biodiversity.
Originally slated for completion in summer 2025, the project has been delayed to spring 2026 due to extreme weather conditions in 2024, which hindered construction progress.
Advice for Motorists
- Plan Ahead: Review the dates and times of the closures and plan your journeys accordingly.
- Allow Extra Time: Expect delays, especially on diversion routes, and allocate additional travel time.
- Use Alternative Routes: Consider bypassing the affected sections of the M25 and A3 by using other motorways or local roads.
- Stay Informed: Regularly check for updates from National Highways and local traffic news sources for the latest information on closures and diversions.
- Public Transport: If feasible, consider using trains or other public transport options to avoid road disruptions.
Conclusion
While these upcoming M25 closures may cause inconvenience, they are essential for long-term improvements to traffic flow and safety. By staying informed and planning ahead, motorists can navigate these disruptions more effectively and contribute to smoother journeys for all road users.
