Motorists traveling on the M5 are now subject to a newly enforced 50mph speed limit, with the risk of facing a substantial £1,000 fine for exceeding it.
Various construction projects are set to take place along the stretch of the motorway in Devon and Somerset, scheduled to continue until February 2026. Commencing from Monday, October 26, and lasting until Thursday, February 19, the area around junction 26 for Wellington will have three narrow lanes in each direction operating under the reduced speed limit for a significant portion of the second set of works.
The ongoing works include tasks such as de-silting ditches, renewing gullies, resurfacing, replacing blocked drainage pipes, updating road markings, conducting camera surveys, and ensuring proofing measures are in place.
A similar speed restriction will be in effect on the southbound carriageway from November 2 until February 11. The overarching goal of the £5.9 million program is to enhance drainage systems and mitigate flooding risks on the verges and carriageway near junction 26.
The initiative by National Highways aims to address flooding concerns and enhance safety for motorists using the M5 in Somerset. Meanwhile, sections between junction 28 and 30 have been closed since mid-September due to weeknight works on the southbound carriage, anticipated to be completed by December.
Several other roadwork schedules have been outlined, indicating closures and works on different sections of the M5 between specified junctions over the coming months. These measures are part of a strategic effort to maintain and improve the infrastructure and safety standards along the motorway.