THE M5 is set for a series of overnight closures as part of major works planned this winter, National Highways has confirmed.
Drivers using the M5 through Somerset are being warned of temporary speed restrictions and overnight closures as contractors carry out a series of winter maintenance works.
Works have now begun, with a main entry slip road set to be closed for works
A temporary traffic regulation order (TTRO) has been issued covering the stretch of the motorway between junctions 23 (Dunball Interchange) and 24 (Huntworth Interchange) near Bridgwater.
The works began at the end of October and are expected to continue until December 18, 2026.
They will include drainage repairs, resurfacing and vegetation management.
M5 roadworks begin with Winter Somerset closures planned
As part of the scheme, a mandatory 50mph speed limit is in place on sections of both the northbound and southbound carriageways, as well as on the northbound entry slip road at junction 24.
As part of the works, vehicles wider than two metres are not permitted to use the outside lane on some sections of the motorway while work is being completed.
National Highways has also authorised overnight closures between junctions 23 and 24 from 9pm to 5am when required. These closures will gradually be signposted and listed on the organisation's Daily Closures web page.
The works could see closures of both the northbound and southbound carriageways in Somerset, the southbound entry slip road at junction 23 and the northbound entry slip road at junction 24.
Diversion routes will be signed via local roads during any closures.
A spokesperson for National Highways said: "It's not one specific scheme but essential winter maintenance being carried out between junctions 23 and 24 between October and December.
"As part of this, we'll be carrying out drainage, resurfacing and vegetation work on the J23 southbound entry slip road under an overnight closure between 9pm on Friday, November 20 and 6am on Saturday, November 21."
The works follow an extensive programme of National Highways works across the south west, with Central reservation barrier replacement roadworks at J25-J26 (Taunton-Wellington) and works at J21 (Weston-super-Mare), where St Georges Bridge is being repaired with a 50mph limit and overnight closures.
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