Highways Agency

• M25 Jct 16 to 23 Widening

Frequently Asked Questions

What consultation has there been to date?

On 23rd August we published an Environmental Statement for the improvement works. The Environmental Statement describes the proposed improvement works, their main effects on the environment and the measures developed to reduce adverse environmental effects. Its purpose is to ensure that all those consulted, including the public, understand the proposals and are given an opportunity to comment on them.

We have presented information from this report on this website under Environmental Impact. Alternatively you may prefer to read the Non-Technical Summary of the Environmental Statement, which can be found be visiting the Publications page.

Any person wishing to express an opinion on the Environmental Statement had the opportunity to do so betwseen 23rd August and 15th November 2007. The comment period has now closed and all commetns were presented in a report to the Secretary of State in early February 2008.

What is a Design, Build, Finance and Operate (DBFO) contract?

It is a form of contract where the Agency pays for a service from a DBFO Company who will design and build the improvements to the motorway.  The DBFO Company will also maintain the motorway, together with other roads covered by the contract, and provide assistance to the Highways Agency in its operation of the network.  The DBFO Company raises the capital it needs (finance) to build the improvements and to operate and maintain the network.

When would the work start?

We anticipate that works would commence in early 2009.

How long would the work take?

The widening for J16-23 will take approximately 3 years to construct.

What about the London 2012 Olympics?

If the works have not been completed beforehand, a temporary road layout will be provided to allow the existing lane configuration to run at 70 mph.

What about disruption during construction?

We have assessed the likely effects and reported these in the Environmental Statement along with the actions we will take to offset them. We will maintain the existing numbers of traffic lanes in each direction during busy times and do not anticipate that there will be any significant traffic disruption caused by the works.

How would we keep traffic moving during the work?

During busy times, we would keep all lanes open. At quieter times, we may close some lanes. This would help us work as quickly as possible.

Will you need my land / property?

No - we are undertaking the  widening within land we already own.

Can I claim for compensation?

Possibly, but the period for making claims would not start until after the widening has been carried out. These are covered under Part 1 of the Land Compensation Act 1973.

Why is the scheme needed?

Every day nearly 200,000 vehicles use parts of the M25 - which is more than the road was built for. Traffic moves slowly, especially at busy times of the day. By widening the road, we would make journey times more reliable and improve safety. We would also help to provide a transport system that works both now and in the future.

What would be the result of the work?

• Traffic flowing more smoothly resulting in fewer accidents.
• No noticeable change in traffic noise levels over the long term  because of a new lower-noise road surface, but with a noticeable reduction in most places immediately after completion.
• Improved drainage providing better water quality
• New modern "cut-off" lighting, which meets the level needed for a four-lane motorway whilst minimising the effect on adjacent properties.

Before we start building, we shall prepare and follow a Construction Environmental Management Plan. This plan sets out how work must be done, and helps us comply with  environmental legislation.