Drivers on the M5 should brace themselves for significant delays as extensive maintenance work continues across key sections of the motorway in Devon and Somerset. The planned works, set to run until February 2026, involve road closures, reduced speed limits, and lane restrictions.
Currently, the southbound carriageway between junctions 28 and 30 is closed in sections during weeknights, a schedule that began mid-September and will continue through December. This is to allow essential resurfacing and drainage upgrades.
A second major phase will start on Monday, October 20, focusing on the area around junction 26 near Wellington. This £5.9 million National Highways project aims to enhance drainage systems, reduce flooding risks, and improve overall safety. The scope includes ditch de-silting, drainage pipe replacements, gully renewals, road resurfacing, and road marking.
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To facilitate the works, a permanent 50mph speed limit will be enforced in both directions with three narrow lanes running through the junction from October 28 until February 19 northbound and from November 2 until February 11 southbound. Numerous overnight full closures and lane shutdowns are scheduled throughout the period:
- October 20-21: Southbound closures between junctions 25 and 27 (lane closures 8pm-6am)
- October 22-24: Northbound lane restrictions between junctions 25 and 27 (8pm-6am)
- October 25-26: Two lanes closed overnight in both directions between junctions 25 and 27
- October 27-30: Full northbound closure overnight (9pm-6am)
- November 1-2: Full southbound closure overnight (9pm-6am)
- November 8-9: Full southbound closure overnight (9pm-6am)
- Additional closures intermittently scheduled through December 2025 and February 2026.
Slip road closures and single lane running between junctions 28 and 30 will also be in effect, with diversions signposted via the A30, A38, and other local routes.
Motorists are advised to plan ahead and expect delays as these critical works progress. The improvements will ultimately provide safer and more reliable journeys by mitigating flooding and reducing weather-related road disruptions on this vital corridor.