M1 junction 32 to 35a emergency area retrofit
From June 2023 we are set to build an additional 12 emergency areas on the M1 between junction 32 (Thurcroft) and junction 35a (Stocksbridge). This is in addition to the existing 8.
Project information
We have listened to drivers' concerns about being able to find a safe place to stop in an emergency on all lane running (ALR) smart motorways.
We have been developing a programme to create additional emergency areas on sections of ALR motorway across the country, including an additional 12 emergency areas on the M1 between junctions 32 and 35A, in addition to the existing eight.
To help us carry out the upgrade safely, the left-hand lane will be closed throughout construction. Lanes two, three and four will remain open with a 50mph speed limit in place.
All existing emergency areas on the M1 will remain open wherever possible throughout construction.
At limited locations where it is necessary to temporarily close an emergency area, a new temporary emergency area will be provided nearby and clearly signed.
A section of hard shoulder over the Tinsley viaduct south of junction 34 will remain in place, though for a period during construction drivers will need to pass between cones to access it.
The upgrade is part of work to add more emergency areas to all lane running motorways across the country.
On motorways that don’t have a permanent hard shoulder, emergency areas provide a place to stop in an emergency if you can't exit the motorway or stop at a motorway service area.
They are clearly signed at regular intervals along the motorway and have bright orange road surfaces to help you identify them. At 100 metres long, they have plenty of space for even the largest lorry plus a recovery vehicle and they are equipped with emergency telephones linking directly to our control rooms to get help on the way quickly.
Documents
Traffic information
Information about scheduled roadworks and events on our motorways and major roads.X
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