Drivers warned of upcoming M5 closures

National Highways is urging drivers to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys as upcoming closures and a contraflow system are set to impact the M5 near Junction 27 (Willand). 

The closures are part of a major repair project aimed at improving road safety and preventing future unplanned disruptions.

The essential work will involve concrete repairs to the road's base. 

Surface layers need to be removed, requiring a series of closures and the implementation of a contraflow system to maintain traffic flow while ensuring the safety of motorists.

The work will begin near the central reservation and will gradually move across the carriageway. 

Weather permitting, the project is expected to be completed by Easter 2025.

Closure Details:

• Saturday 9 November: The south gyratory at Junction 27 will be closed overnight from 8.30pm to 6am. Traffic will be diverted via B3181, Willand Road, and Heathcoat Way.
• Sunday 10 November to Wednesday 13 November: The southbound M5 will be closed overnight between Junctions 26 (Wellington) and 28 (Cullompton) from 8.30pm to 6am each night. A diversion will be in place via the A38 and B3181.
• Thursday 14 November to Friday 15 November: The northbound M5 will be closed overnight between Junctions 28 (Cullompton) and 26 (Wellington) from 8.30pm to 6am. Traffic will be diverted via the A38 and B3181.
• Saturday 16 November: The south gyratory at Junction 27 will be closed overnight from 8:30pm to 6am. Traffic will be diverted via B3181, Willand Road, and Heathcoat Way.
• From 6am Saturday 16 November: A contraflow will be in place with two lanes running in each direction, with all traffic using the southbound carriageway. In early 2025, traffic will be moved to the north side of the motorway to allow work on the southbound carriageway.
• Monday 25 to Friday 29 November: The M5 northbound exit slip road at Junction 27 will be closed from 8.30pm to 6am each night, with traffic diverted via Junction 26.
• Monday 9 to Friday 13 December: The M5 northbound entry slip road at Junction 27 will be closed from 8.30pm to 6am each night, with traffic diverted via Junction 28.

National Highways recommends that drivers check their routes ahead of time and stay updated on the status of closures via the official channels.

Kevin Gibbs, Project Manager for National Highways, said: “Safety is our number one priority, and we apologise for any inconvenience this may cause but need to carry out these essential repairs to ensure the long-term maintenance and safety of the road.

“We understand that road closures are frustrating, but by closing the road and installing a contraflow, we can get this essential repair work done safely and quickly, causing less disruption overall.

“Once it's all complete, these improvements will benefit road users and the local community for many years to come.”

Work is expected to be completed in spring 2025, ahead of the Easter holidays. 

National Highways has assured that once completed, the improvements will benefit road users and the local community for years to come.

For more information on National Highways' work in the South West, visit National Highways South West, and for live traffic updates, follow the @HighwaysSWEST Twitter feed or visit Traffic England.