Will you need to close M5 Junction 10 during construction? If so, what will the diversion routes be?
The next stage of construction will include the closure of the existing northbound entry and southbound exit slip roads at junction 10. These closures are currently expected to begin in early 2027 and last for an extended period of around two years, although the exact duration is still being reviewed.
To manage displaced traffic during these closures, the following diversion routes will be in place:
- Closure of the northbound on slip at Junction 10: traffic will be diverted via the A4019, A38 and A438 to rejoin the northbound M5 at Junction 9
- Closure of the southbound off slip at Junction 10: traffic will be diverted to leave the M5 at Junction 11 before being rerouted back to Junction 10 via the A40 eastbound, A4013 and A4019
The slip roads need to close so that some of the most complex parts of the scheme can be carried out as safely and efficiently as reasonably possible.
Different construction and traffic management approaches have been considered, taking into account safety, cost, the construction timetable and the impact on road users and local communities. We believe a single extended closure is the best option, rather than opening and closing the slip roads at different stages or repeatedly changing access.
Why do you need to close the slip roads?
The slip roads need to be closed so that the most complex parts of the M5 Junction 10 improvement works can be carried out safely, efficiently and as quickly as reasonably possible. It would not be possible to keep the slip roads open throughout construction; they would need to be opened and closed periodically to enable the works. We believe this would result in safety risks to the road user and our workforce, and cause confusion for drivers through multiple changes to the traffic management arrangements. Opening the slip roads periodically would also extend the overall duration of the traffic management measures on the M5 mainline and at the junction.
A single, extended closure has been identified as the best option following consideration of a range of alternative construction and traffic management approaches. This approach allows the project team to carry out the necessary works more efficiently while helping to minimise disruption over the life of the project.
Although the northbound entry and southbound exit slip roads at Junction 10 will be closed for an extended period, the M5 mainline will remain open. Individual closures and traffic management may be required on the M5 mainline and will be clearly communicated when appropriate. Gloucestershire County Council, National Highways and the project team are continuing to review the proposals to ensure the closures support safe construction, effective project delivery and minimise disruption for road users and local communities as far as possible.