May 10th 2024.
This coming weekend, a significant portion of the M25 will be closed in order to carry out necessary maintenance work. Specifically, a seven-mile stretch of the motorway will be shut down in both directions from 9pm on Friday until 6am on Monday morning. The affected area is between junctions 9 and 10 in Surrey, and drivers are being advised to avoid this section of the motorway during the temporary closure.
To ensure smooth traffic flow, a 19-mile diversion route has been planned and drivers are urged to follow it instead of trying to navigate through the closed section. This diversion will take vehicles through parts of Surrey and Greater London. This is the second closure of the M25 this year, following the temporary shutdown of junctions 10 and 11 in March. Despite initial concerns about heavy traffic, a successful awareness campaign helped reduce congestion in the diverted areas by approximately two-thirds.
Unfortunately, those traveling to or from Heathrow and Gatwick airports are likely to experience the most impact from this closure. The National Highways has warned motorists to expect long delays and advises them to plan accordingly. Additionally, drivers who deviate from the official diversion routes may be subject to London's ultra-low emission zone rules, which could result in a fine if their vehicle does not meet the minimum emissions standards.
Jonathan Wade, senior project manager at National Highways, reassures drivers that no enforcement action will be taken if they follow the diversion routes. However, he cautions that those who choose to ignore the signs and go their own way run the risk of getting caught if their vehicle is not compliant with ULEZ standards. This is why it is crucial for drivers to carefully follow the official routes, as stated by RAC spokesperson Alice Simpson.
Simpson also emphasizes the importance of planning ahead and checking the diversion routes beforehand to avoid relying on potentially misleading sat navs. She also encourages drivers to conduct basic vehicle checks, such as oil and coolant levels, tire pressure, and tread depth, to prevent breakdowns during the journey.
It is essential for drivers to be aware that deviating from the planned diversion routes may result in paying the £12.50 daily ULEZ fee if their vehicle does not meet emissions standards. Failure to pay this charge can lead to a fine of £180, which can be reduced to £90 if paid within 14 days. Therefore, drivers are advised to adhere to the diversion routes and comply with the ULEZ standards to avoid any potential penalties.
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