Traffic builds as M3 roundabout is closed this weekend near Winchester - with a diversion in place

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M3 closed this weekend

Traffic is building as a result of the closure of a major Hampshire motorway this weekend.

The M3 junction 9 roundabout closed last night and will remain closed until 6am on Monday, August 24. It is the second of three summer closures, with a further one planned from September 11 to 14.

According to the AA traffic report, There are currently delays on the M3 northbound as far back as Chandler’s Ford.

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M3 traffic | AA Traffic

National Highways has said the work will allow it to essential road connections to the new roundabout and bridges on the interchange which is being updated at a cost of up to £322 million.

The closure means that traffic cannot use the roundabout to connect to the A34, A31 or the A272.

Meanwhile The junction’s northbound entry slip road which closed last month will stay closed until winter 2027 as part of the works. Instead, drivers will be directed to join the M3 southbound at junction 9, travel to junction 11, then exit and re-enter the M3 northbound.

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M3 Junction 9 project | National Highways

National Highways said this is needed so the project team can safely build a new, dedicated A34 northbound link, which will provide a crucial route for freight travel from the ports - including Portsmouth - to the Midlands and beyond.

The northbound A3 at Guilding is closed this weekend while repairs and resurfacing is carried out, causing delays northbound beyond the Hog’s Back.

However the A31 has reopened this morning following its closure as a result of the devastating New Forest fire.

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