A major motorway used by around 120,000 drivers every day will face major disruption this weekend as part of a huge multi-million-pound redevelopment project. Drivers are being warned to prepare for closures and diversion routes as key sections of the road network shut for essential works.
Motorway Closures to Start This Weekend
The overnight closures will affect Junction 10 on the M27 from Friday, May 8, until Sunday, May 10. During the works, the A32 will be fully closed in both directions, while several motorway on and off-slips will also shut.
The closures are part of ongoing construction linked to a massive new “garden village” development planned between Southampton and Portsmouth. Engineers will use the closure period to connect the new road layout to the existing Broadway Roundabout system and complete drainage works on the westbound M27 off-slip.
Drivers travelling through the area are expected to face delays, with diversion routes set to be in place across the weekend.
Why the Roadworks Are Happening
The disruption is tied to the wider £308 million Welborne development, one of the largest housing projects planned for the south coast. The new community will include around 6,000 homes, alongside schools, healthcare services, shops, green spaces and business facilities.
The development is being promoted as one of Britain’s most environmentally friendly new towns. Plans include homes powered by a nearby solar farm, alongside an underground heating network using heat pumps connected to a reservoir.
Work at Junction 10 has been ongoing for months as roads are redesigned to handle the expected increase in traffic once the development is completed.
What Drivers Need to Know
Motorists using the M27 this weekend are being urged to check routes before travelling and allow extra time for journeys. The closure of both the A32 and motorway slip roads is likely to create congestion across surrounding areas, especially during peak travel hours.
A spokesperson involved in the project said “good progress” continues to be made on-site, although a final reopening date for the full scheme has not yet been confirmed.
“We understand everyone is keen to know when the scheme will fully reopen, and we appreciate their patience,” the spokesperson said, reports The Sun.
Major Changes Still Ahead
The motorway closures are just one phase of the wider transformation project, with more work expected over the coming months. Once completed, the upgraded junction is expected to support thousands of new residents and improve long-term traffic flow across the area.
For now, though, drivers are being warned to prepare for a difficult weekend on one of the region’s busiest motorway routes.
