Highways Agency

• M25 Jct 27 to 30 Widening

Frequently Asked Questions

What consultation has there been to date?

There was widespread consultation during the multi-modal study that led to the publication of the ORBIT Report in 2002. The result of these consultations was considered by the Secretary of State before making his announcement regarding the Scheme.

What are you doing now?

We have identified the existing environmental conditions and developed the design in conjunction with the Statutory Environmental Bodies like the Environment Agency, Natural England and other organisations such as the Emergency Services and local authorities.  We have published our findings of the effects of the proposals in an Environmental Statement.

How can the public participate further?

We welcome comment and suggestions and these can be made by e-mail or by writing to us – see the 'Contact Information and Map' page. The Environmental Statement was published on 15th November 2007. The dates and times when the public exhibitions are being held and the locations where documents may be viewed are contained on the 'Exhibition Details' page. There will be a formal period of 12 weeks (until 7th February 2008) during which comment can be made. Please note that others will be able to read any comments made.

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?

This will depend on whether the Secretary of State decides the scheme should proceed.  The Secretary of State will consider the Environmental Statement and the comments received before making a decision. If the decision is to proceed, we anticipate that works would commence in 2010.

How long would the work take?

The widening for J27-30 will take approximately 2 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.