M27 fully reopened for first time in years after £83 million overhaul

A large section of the M27 in Hampshire was closed back in February 2024 to allow for improvements costing GBP83 million including a new low noise surface and a drainage system overhaul

20:12, 21 Apr 2026

Roadworks on the motorway are estimated to have cost GBP83 million (Image: Hampshire Live / Darren Pepe)

A stretch of major motorway that was closed two years ago has finally re-opened after multi-million pound roadworks were completed.

The M27 in Hampshire, between junctions 5 and 7, was closed to drivers back in February 2024 to allow for an estimated GBP83 million of changes allowing including a new low noise surface to the carriageway and a drainage system overhaul.

All lane closures were fully lifted this morning. The work need to be carried out due to the motorway passing through "several Noise Important Areas", National Highways said.

"The new low-noise surface will help to reduce the noise and will benefit the communities living near the road," it added.

National Highways said the work will 'benefit communities living near the road'(Image: Hampshire Live / Darren Pepe)

The motorway is currently operating with a temporary 50mph speed limit, which will stay in place while technology[1] testing is still being carried out. One this is completed, all limits are expected to be lifted later in the spring.

"All together these measures will ensure a smoother ride for drivers, make the road quieter, improve safety and ensure the road lasts longer," National Highways added.

The M27 is a 27.9-mile motorway in Hampshire, running between Cadnam and Portsmouth to connect Southampton and Portsmouth.

Speaking about the roadworks, National Highways previously said: "The concrete layer of the M27 between junction 5 and 7 will be overlaid with 180mm of low noise surface asphalt.

Due to the thickness of this new asphalt layer, we'll need to make changes to the existing barrier systems, drainage, structures and other assets.

"Concrete roads make up almost 400 miles (4%) of England's motorway and major A-road network.

Around half of these roads will either have repairs or be replaced by 2025, as part of our commitment to delivering the Government's second Road Investment Strategy to maintain and renew the strategic road network.

"We'll be using innovative techniques and new technology to provide a modern road that will last for decades to come, and which is easier and quicker for us to repair in future."

References

1. ^ technology (www.mirror.co.uk)