M27 smart motorway delayed
Last updated 2nd Apr 2021
Wave 105 can reveal controversial work to change the M27 into a so-called Smart Motorway has been delayed by at least four months.
Highways England has confirmed all signs indicating that the motorway would be open in March 2021 have been removed from the carriageway.
The government owned company now states on its website that the end date for works is "July - September 2021".
The works, costing ÂŁ244 million, will see the previous hard shoulder converted into a live lane between junctions 4 near Southampton and 11 for Fareham.
Motorists will instead have to use refuge areas if they need to stop along the 15 mile stretch of carriageway.
Motorists have endured longer journeys since average speed cameras were installed in December 2018 restricting drivers to 50mph while the works are carried out.
A Highways England spokesperson said:
"We are committed to bringing drivers the upgraded section of the M27 as soon as possible.
It’s a massive job and is making good progress, and we will give drivers advance notice before it opens."