Drivers on the M25 have been strongly advised by the AA not to rely on sat-navs or Google Maps during a full weekend closure in Surrey. This caution comes after an incident where a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) driver had to be rescued by police while attempting to navigate the area using technology.
The final M25 weekend closure, part of a £317 million project, begins on Friday, March 21, 2025. The motorway will be closed between Junction 10 (Wisley) and Junction 11 (Chertsey) from 9 PM on Friday until 5:30 AM on Monday, March 24, to facilitate the demolition and removal of a bridge that is no longer needed. During this time, diversion routes will be established along A roads, and drivers are urged to avoid the area unless their journey is “absolutely necessary.”
Shaun Jones, Patrol of the Year for the AA, emphasized the importance of following the official diversion routes. “We urge drivers, particularly those in HGVs, to follow the signed diversionary routes rather than using sat-navs or Google Maps,” he stated. The warning especially applies to those attending the England v Albania football match at Wembley Stadium on Friday evening, as increased traffic is expected after the match.
The closure is anticipated to significantly impact numerous travelers, particularly those journeying to and from the UK’s two busiest airports, Heathrow and Gatwick. This includes football fans returning home after the match, presenting an added challenge for motorists.
For drivers heading clockwise, the diversion will lead them onto the A3 northbound at Junction 10, then through the A245 and A320, before rejoining the M25 at Junction 11. Conversely, drivers going counter-clockwise must take the A320 southbound at Junction 11, then the A245 and A3, before they can rejoin the M25 at Junction 10.
This is the fifth and final weekend closure as part of the motorway improvement project intended to enhance safety and alleviate congestion at Junction 10. Initial plans set the project’s completion for this summer, but due to delays attributed to extreme weather, it is now expected to finish in spring next year.
National Highways noted a “notable increase in traffic” during the last closure two weeks ago compared to the first three closures that occurred in 2024, leading to significant disruption and delays in local areas.
Jonathan Wade, a senior project manager, addressed these concerns: “We are now on the home straight of this complex project and we are pleased to say this is the last time the M25 will be closed over a full weekend.” He further urged motorists to enjoy their weekend travels while ensuring they plan their journeys appropriately to avoid long traffic jams, especially in the Surrey area.
To summarize, the AA and National Highways both stress the importance of heeding advice and using the designated routes to ensure a smoother travel experience this weekend. With the demolition of the bridge marking the end of this long-awaited project, motorists are encouraged to prepare for delays and adjust their travel plans accordingly.
