Drivers urged to plan ahead for M5 closures

Motorists using the M5 northbound from Exeter are being strongly advised to plan their journeys and allow extra travel time due to significant roadworks set to begin on the M5 near Junction 27 (Willand). 

The upcoming closures and contraflow system are expected to cause delays, making it crucial for drivers in this region to consider alternative routes or adjust their travel times.

National Highways is implementing these closures as part of a government-funded project to carry out essential concrete repairs on the road's base, enhancing safety and reducing the likelihood of future unplanned closures. 

The work involves removing surface layers above the concrete, necessitating lane closures and the establishment of a contraflow system on the M5.

To ensure safety, the work will start near the central reservation and gradually move across the carriageway. 

National Highways has scheduled the project to begin after the main summer holiday period to minimise disruption. 

During the October half-term, three lanes will be open in each direction to accommodate increased traffic.

Closure and Contraflow Schedule:

• Monday, 16 September to Tuesday, 1 October: Overnight lane closures will take place on the M5 around Junction 27 (Tiverton) from 8.30pm to 6am each night. At least one lane will remain open in each direction during these hours.
• Wednesday, 2 October & Thursday, 3 October: The M5 will be closed southbound between Junction 26 (Wellington) and Junction 28 (Cullompton) from 8.30pm to 6am Traffic will be diverted via the A38 and B3181.
• Friday, 4 October & Saturday, 5 October: The M5 will be closed northbound between Junction 28 (Cullompton) and Junction 26 (Wellington) from 8.30pm to 6am each night. Traffic will be diverted via the B3181 and A38.
• Saturday, 5 October to Friday, 24 October: Beginning at 6am on Saturday, 5 October, one lane will be closed on the northbound M5 around Junction 27. Southbound traffic will be reduced to three lanes, with vehicles utilising the hard shoulder.
• Friday, 24 October to Monday, 4 November: During the October half-term, three lanes will be open in each direction. Traffic will use the hard shoulder in both directions while work is carried out in the middle of the road.

Weather permitting, the repair work is scheduled to be completed before Easter 2025.