Work to create extra emergency areas on motorways across the Midlands started in spring 2024, with a coordinated series of upgrades getting underway along the M1 and nearby on the M5.
56 new emergency areas on four motorway stretches across the Midlands are being retro-fitted:
M1 between junctions 23a and 25 in Leicestershire and Derbyshire – 6 new emergency areas
M1 between junctions 28 and 30 in Derbyshire – 20 new emergency areas
M1 between junctions 16 and 19 in Northamptonshire – 20 new emergency areas
M5 between junctions 4a and 6 in Worcestershire – 10 new emergency areas
The exact number of emergency areas on each section of motorway may change. This is because we can’t rule out finding unexpected conditions which prevent work at any individual location after constructions begins.
National Highways says it will deliver this work in phases, starting in spring 2024, and expect to complete our work by spring 2025.
How will this work affect journeys?
To carry out the work safely, lane one of the motorways listed above will be closed throughout the duration of the work. Lanes two, three and four will remain open with a 50 mph speed limit in place.
CCTV cameras will continue to monitor the carriageway and 24-hour free recovery will be in operation.
The lane one closure will be installed overnight using a temporary barrier to protect the workforce and the public.
Existing emergency areas on the motorways will remain open wherever possible. At limited locations where it’s necessary to temporarily close an emergency area, a temporary emergency area will be provided nearby and clearly signed.
Note 24 hours*
