Drivers are being warned to follow diversion signs in order to avoid ULEZ charges during three weekend-long junction closures on the M25. Closures will be in place on the weekends of 4 October, 18 October and 1 November, when drivers won't be able to use slip roads to leave or join the M25 or the A3 at junction 10. The roads will close at 9pm on each Friday night.

The advice to drivers is to follow the signed diversion route or "check whether their vehicle would be subject to charges at the Transport for London website". The routes will reopn again on 6am the following Monday morning.

There are seven diversions listed by National Highways for the weekends, when both the M25 and the A3 will remain open. Of the seven, two of them use the A243 going past Chessington World of Adventures, which is within the zone.

The ULEZ was expanded to cover all London boroughs in August 2023, and ordinarily drivers of non-compliant cars anywhere within the ULEZ face a daily charge of £12.50. It means a driver driving both Saturday and Sunday of each affected weekend could rack up a £75 charge.

The Impact of M25 Closures on ULEZ Charges

The closures are part of a three-year £317m project to update the junctions. The slip road closures are part of works to improve junction 10. National Highways said junction 10 was the busiest section of the M25, with more than 300,000 vehicles passing through every day. Three full weekend closures of the motorway have taken place already in 2024, with more scheduled in 2025.

The ULEZ was expanded in August 2023 to cover all London boroughs. While the Ultra Low Emission Zone across London will remain in force during these closures, the signed diversion routes have been designed to ensure that drivers would avoid any charges. However, drivers are strongly advised to follow the signed diversion routes or check their vehicle's compliance on the Transport for London website before travelling. For those heading eastbound on the M25 towards Gatwick and wishing to access the A3, the diversion involves exiting at Junction 11 and following the A320 and A245, road users are told.

Why Is This Happening?

These closures are part of a larger project to improve the M25, specifically at junction 10. National Highways considers this junction the busiest section of the M25 with more than 300,000 vehicles passing through each day. The aim is to reduce congestion and improve safety. The £317 million project is expected to take three years to complete, with several weekend closures scheduled throughout 2024 and 2025.

What Drivers Need to Know

Drivers are being warned to be mindful of the ULEZ charges and to plan their journeys accordingly. Those driving non-compliant vehicles who use the diversion routes and end up within the ULEZ zone could be subject to a £12.50 daily charge. Here's a breakdown of what you need to know:

• Follow diversion signs: National Highways has provided diversion routes to avoid ULEZ charges. It's crucial to follow these signs and avoid relying on sat-navs.
• Check your vehicle's compliance: Before travelling, verify whether your vehicle meets ULEZ standards on the Transport for London website.
• Plan your route: Factor in the extra time required for diversion routes. Consider travelling during off-peak hours to reduce the likelihood of encountering congestion.
• Stay informed: Keep up to date with any changes to the closure dates and diversion routes by checking National Highways' website or social media channels.

Driving Through ULEZ During M25 Closures

The BBC has asked Transport for London for clarity on how drivers using the diversion will be monitored and those in non-compliant cars not charged on their journey. The ULEZ will still be in force across London during the closures, meaning drivers could be stung with a fine if they don't follow the signed diversion route. The ULEZ was expanded to cover all London boroughs in August 2023. The advice to drivers is to follow the signed diversion route or "check whether their vehicle would be subject to charges at the Transport for London website".

The closures are part of a three-year £317m project to update the junctions. Three full weekend closures of the motorway have taken place already in 2024, with more scheduled in 2025.

A Final Reminder

By following the recommended diversions, drivers can avoid incurring ULEZ charges and ensure their journeys are smooth and hassle-free. Remember, the ULEZ zone extends to all London boroughs. It's essential to plan ahead, check vehicle compliance, and adhere to the designated diversion routes to ensure you aren't caught out by unexpected charges.

Staying informed and planning your route carefully is key to navigating these closures without encountering any financial penalties.