Long-running speed restrictions to be lifted on the M27 between Eastleigh and Hedge End

A long running speed restriction is set to be lifted on a stretch of Hampshire motorway after over two years.

Drivers travelling on the M27 between junction 5 (Eastleigh) and junction 7 (Hedge End) have had to go through a 50mph speed restriction since work began to resurface the stretch of road in February 2024. However, it has now been confirmed that the project is nearing completion and the section of the M27 will return to 70mph at 6am on Tuesday, June 23.

The news has been heralded by Hampshire County Council leader Nick Adams-King. He said: “Some very welcome news for everyone who regularly travels along the M27. At last, all four lanes will be open in both directions and the long-running temporary speed restrictions will be removed, allowing traffic to travel at up to 70mph again. Variable speed limits will remain in operation when needed.

“It has been a long and often frustrating period for motorists, so thank you to everyone who has endured the delays. It will be a considerable relief finally to see the restrictions lifted next week.”

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The project which has cost around £83 million to complete has seen almost 90,000 tonnes of low noise asphalt laid over the old concrete carriageway with drainage, barrier and concrete repairs also taking place.

While the speed restrictions will be lifted on June 23, to finish the project there will be two further overnight closures to remove the temporary signs related to the work:

• Friday, June 19, 9pm to 6am: M27 junction 8 eastbound entry slip road
• Tuesday, June 30, 9pm to 6am: M3 southbound to M27 eastbound link road

Once complete there will still be restriction in place on other parts of the M27, including at junction 8 where bridge maintenance work is taking place and at junction 10 where an improvement scheme is underway to facilitate the delivery of new homes and jobs at Welborne Garden Village.