Hampshire M27 closures as two-year £83m project starts

National Highways M27 junctions 5 to 7National Highways
The motorway's concrete surface will be replaced with asphalt

A two-year £83m project to upgrade a stretch of motorway is due to get under way, involving a reduced speed limit and overnight closures.

National Highways is resurfacing the M27 between junctions five (Eastleigh) and seven (Hedge End) in Hampshire.

It said the work would reduce noise, improve drainage and strengthen the central reservation.

The motorway's four lanes will be reduced to three with a 50mph (80km/h) limit in place.

The first overnight closure will be westbound between junctions nine (Swanwick) and five from 21:00 GMT on Monday until 06:00 GMT on Tuesday.

Further overnight closures are scheduled this week, according to the National Highways website.

The roads operator said the scheme was part of plans to replace England's concrete road surfaces with asphalt.

Programme delivery manager Richard Scrase said: "It will provide a low-noise surface, which will create a much better experience for drivers on this route as well as ensuring the road lasts longer.

"The reduction in noise will also benefit communities living near this route."

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