A PROJECT to update one of the busiest interchanges in the country will see the M25 closed over several weekends in coming months.
National Highways says junction 10 of the motorway has one of the highest collision rates across the road network, and sees large queues and heavy congestion on a daily basis.
The project to install new bridges and update the exits aims to make a smoother journey for the 270,000 vehicles that use it every day.
It includes a heathland green bridge will link Ockham and Wisley commons for the first time since the A3 was built.
The road closures will allow National Highways to demolish existing bridges and install new ones.
The work will take place across the year.
The first will see the A3 between Send and junction 10 (Wisley) shut in both directions from 9pm on Friday, February 23, through to 6am on Monday, February 26. This is to allow for bridge demolition work.
Then from 9pm on Friday, March 15, to 6am on Monday, March 18, the M25 between junction 11 (Chertsey Interchange) and junction 10 (Wisley) will be closed in both directions for bridge demolition and gantry installation.
Further closures will take place over the course of the year.
Jonathan Wade, senior project manager for National Highways M25 J10 upgrade, said: “A key element of our upgrade at junction 10 is the installation of eight new bridges – either replacements or new structures entirely.
“As we enter a new phase for the project, we’ll ramp up our work on these structures with a number of demolitions and installation the bridge beams at different locations.
“We understand the significance of closing the M25 for the weekend, which is why we are giving motorists as much notice as possible so they’re able to plan their journeys well in advance.”
He continued: “We carefully plan all our closures to try and limit any inconvenience, but sometimes it’s simply not possible to carry out the work that’s needed without a closure.
“Our message for anyone who plans to travel on the M25 or the A3 is to avoid the area if you can – if that’s not possible, allow yourself extra time to complete your journey via our signed diversion routes.
“Please check our website for latest details before you leave home.”
Due to the nature of the works, all closures are subject to change if events outside of National Highways control occur – such as adverse weather conditions.
The project is expected to be completed next year.
For more details, including diversion route information, flythroughs, animations, and an interactive hub, log on to: www.nationalhighways.co.uk/our-roads/south-east/m25-junction-10/