Why is there a 50mph speed limit on both sides of M27?

The M27 has been reduced to three lanes in both directions from junction five to seven – much to the disdain of motorists.

It comes as extensive overlay works by National Highways get underway.

But the ongoing 50mph speed restriction and narrowing of lanes has been described as ‘dangerous’.

What work is taking place?

Work began just over two weeks ago on March 18 as traffic management was installed on the westbound carriageway.

This was then repeated for a week from March 21.

The scheme aims to reduce noise using lower-noise asphalt and provide a smoother surface for drivers between junctions seven and five.

It comes after those living in West End and Hedge End campaigned for the work, citing ‘unbelievably noisy’ traffic.

READ MORE: M27 driver calls for smart motorway to be scrapped after 'just escaping death'

The ‘noisy’ concrete littered with potholes will be replaced.

Significant draining improvements to the road and safety changes to the central reservation will also occur.

According to National Highways, the onsite work of the long-awaited scheme will be completed by Spring 2026.

How much will this cost?

A whopping £82m is being spent on the improvements to the M27.

The project – of which funding for was secured in 2014 – has been hit with delays.

The latest setback followed a ballooning cost of £50m to £82m, halting the works which were earmarked for Spring 2023.

Eastleigh MP Paul Holmes fought for the works to take place since taking up his seat in 2019.

He previously told the Echo: “I’m delighted that following my successful campaign this project is going ahead.

“I’ve always believed we must secure this project to ease the noise and inconvenience of residents in Hedge End and West End."

‘Treacherous’ stretch of motorway

The closures on the M27, from junction 5 and 7 (Image: AA Traffic)

Many people are enjoying the future prospect of a good night’s sleep thanks to the works, while others have hit out at the scheme.

Motorists who regularly drive on the M27 have questioned the need for the two-year lane reductions.

Southampton resident David Hacking wrote to the Echo to speak of his grave concerns about the narrow lanes.

His letter read: "Either the authorities responsible need to shut down that dangerous stretch of motorway, or order the construction company involved to get rid of all the obstructions and revert back to normal road use until they come up with a sensible idea to proceed without endangering lives."

Commenting on the Daily Echo Facebook post, Clive Foley said: “I drive over a thousand miles a week as part of my job.

“Without doubt this stretch of road, already one of the most dangerous in the south has become even more treacherous.

“We are definitely in for some casualties.”

Sarah Delves said she changed her route to work as the ongoing works give her anxiety, while Kate Davis said, ‘it’s scary driving along there’.

Emma Henley said: “I've not personally gone out with my tape measure but believe the lanes are equal to or narrower than a car parking space particularly going eastbound.”