M5 schemes
Over the next five years, we're maintaining the M5 to future proof it and keep it safe
The M5 in the south west runs between junction 9 for Tewkesbury and junction 31 for Exeter. It's between 50 and 60 years old, with some parts dating back to the 1960s.
Our work will include:
- maintaining bridges and structures
- improving drainage
- replacing barriers, signs and lights
- upgrading technology
- resurfacing.
We'll give details of where we're working and the traffic management we're using on this page.
M5 drainage works at junction 26 near Wellington - 20 October 2025 to October 2026
We finished this phase of work on the M5 junction 26 drainage scheme on Friday 31 July.
The narrow lanes have been removed and the 50mph speed restriction has been lifted.
We'll return in October to finish the planting and complete the scheme.
We might need some hard shoulder closures to complete the planting in October as the majority of the work will be undertaken predominately off the motorway.
Please remember that closures can change at short notice. You can check the latest information on our daily closures. Our travel alerts give details of live incidents on our network.
M5 junctions 29 to 31 barrier replacement - 1 May 2026 to 28 March 2027
We're replacing and installing new safety barriers on the M5 between junctions 29 and 31 to keep drivers safe.
1 May 2026 - 28 March 2027
Most work will be done overnight, usually Sunday to Thursday, when traffic levels are lowest. Some slip road closures will require full overnight or weekend closures.
Temporary speed restrictions will be used during the works as concrete for the new barriers needs time to harden.
Details of full closures will be updated here nearer the time and signed diversions will be in place.
We understand these works may cause some inconvenience and we appreciate your patience while we carry out these essential safety improvements.
Please remember that closures can change at short notice. You can check the latest information on our daily closures. Our travel alerts give details of live incidents on our network.
M5 junction 25 - junction 26 safety barrier replacement - 2 November 2026 - July 2027
We're replacing the central safety barrier, sometimes known as VRS, between junctions 25 and 26 on the M5 near Taunton in Somerset.
The barrier has reached the end of its life and needs replacing.
Work will start on the 2 November 2026 and is planned to be completed by the end of July 2027.
Between November 2026 and March 2027
The M5 will be reduced to two lanes running in both directions with a 50mph speed limit in place between junctions 25 and 26.
Lane 3 on both carriageways will be closed to maintain the safety of our teams and drivers.
Between March and July 2027
Three narrow lanes will be running in both directions on the M5 junction 25 - 26 with the 50mph speed limit remaining in place.
Some overnight closures will be needed to install and change the layout of the traffic management during the work.
Upcoming closures
2 - 8 November
M5 lane closures overnight (9pm - 6am) between junction 25 - junction 26.
9 November 2026
M5 closed southbound overnight (9pm - 6am) between junction 25 - junction 26.
10 - 13 November 2026
M5 closed in both directions overnight (9pm - 6am) between junction 25 - junction 26.
16 November 2026
M5 closed in both directions overnight (9pm - 6am) between junction 25 - junction 26.
17 November 2026
M5 closed northbound overnight (9pm - 6am) between junction 26 - junction 25.
Diversion
Signed diversion routes will be in place via the A38 between Wellington and Taunton during full closures.
Please follow the signs and not sat navs.
Please remember that closures can change at short notice. You can check the latest information on our daily closures page. Our travel alerts give details of live incidents on our network.
Project information
Documents
Related Road projects
