Commuters and airport travellers are bracing for unprecedented chaos this weekend as one of Britain's busiest motorways prepares to shut down completely. The M25 will close in both directions between Junctions 10 and 11 from 9pm Friday until 6am Monday, creating a perfect storm for anyone heading to Heathrow Airport or travelling through Surrey.
What's Causing This Unprecedented Shutdown?
This dramatic closure forms part of a £317 million improvement project designed to increase capacity at the critical Junction 10 interchange. Engineers will be demolishing a existing bridge and installing a new gantry in work that simply cannot be completed with partial lane closures.
Heathrow Airport Access Under Threat
Passengers travelling to Heathrow Airport face particular challenges. While the airport itself remains accessible, the closure will severely impact approaches from the south and west. Airport officials are urging travellers to allow at least two hours extra for their journeys to catch flights.
Official Diversion Routes Explained
National Highways has established a lengthy official diversion route stretching approximately 19 miles:
- From Junction 10 to Junction 11: A3 towards London, A243 towards Chessington, A240 towards Epsom, A24 towards Leatherhead
- From Junction 11 to Junction 10: A320 towards Woking, A245 towards Byfleet, A3 towards Guildford
However, transport experts warn these local roads could become completely gridlocked under the additional traffic pressure.
Local Residents Voice Concerns
Residents in surrounding areas including Byfleet, West Byfleet, and villages throughout Surrey are preparing for what some are calling 'carmageddon'. Many have reported receiving official letters warning them to stay at home unless absolutely necessary during the closure period.
Future Closures Looming
This weekend's shutdown won't be the last. Drivers face four more complete closures of the same stretch between now and September 2024 as the improvement project continues. Each will follow a similar pattern of weekend-long shutdowns.
Essential Travel Advice
Transport authorities are urging drivers to:
- Avoid the area completely unless absolutely necessary
- Consider postponing non-essential journeys
- Allow substantial extra time for airport travel
- Follow official diversion routes rather than relying on satnavs
- Check real-time traffic updates before departing
This represents one of the most significant motorway closures in recent years, testing both the official diversion plans and the patience of thousands of affected motorists.
