Drivers to see national speed limit return to major motorway for first time in two years

Motorists using a portion of the M27 will be able to travel at the full 70mph speed limit again from 6am tomorrow, as long-running roadworks finally reach completion.

The temporary 50mph restriction between junction 5 near Eastleigh and junction 7 at Hedge End will be lifted, bringing an end to more than two years of disruption linked to a major resurfacing and upgrade scheme.

While all four lanes in both directions reopened in April, the lower speed limit had stayed in place until checks were complete.

From tomorrow morning, drivers will once again be able to use the national speed limit along the stretch, although variable speed limits will still be used when needed, depending on traffic conditions.

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The £83million project began in February 2024 and has involved a full renewal of the motorway surface, along with major safety and drainage improvements.

Around 90,000 tonnes of low-noise asphalt have been laid over the original concrete carriageway, designed to reduce traffic noise for nearby communities and improve driving conditions.

Extensive structural work was also carried out, including the replacement of 281 concrete bays and more than 1,100 separate repairs across the route.

Drainage systems were significantly upgraded, with over 11,000 metres of drainage repaired or replaced during the works, according to National Highways.

New safety barriers were installed along the central reservation, with thousands of metres of both concrete and metal systems added as part of the upgrade.

Although it was designed to last around 50 years, it had deteriorated to a point where full replacement was needed for safety and reliability.

Hampshire County Council leader Nick Adams-King said drivers had faced a difficult period during the works. He said it had "been a long and often frustrating period for motorists" and welcomed the lifting of the restrictions.

National Highways programme delivery manager Richard Scrase also thanked road users for their patience throughout the project.

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He said: "Alongside the resurfacing work, we delivered significant drainage and safety improvements, creating smoother, quieter and safer journeys for motorists for generations to come."

The prolonged works have had a noticeable impact on businesses that rely on the motorway for transport and logistics.

Freight operators were among the worst affected, with many relying on the M27 as a key route for moving goods across Hampshire and connecting to wider national networks.

National Highways acknowledged that the motorway carries a mix of traffic, including commercial haulage, commuters and leisure drivers, all of whom experienced delays during the works.

Although the main speed restriction is being lifted, two further overnight closures are planned before all temporary traffic management is removed.

The junction 8 eastbound entry slip road will close on Friday night, followed by the M3 southbound to M27 eastbound link road on June 30.

Drivers are also being advised that a separate 50mph limit will remain in place around junction 8 due to ongoing bridge maintenance in that area.

Motorists have been warned that closure dates and traffic arrangements may still change at short notice depending on weather conditions and operational needs.

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