Hundreds of disruptions to hit UK roads in run-up to Christmas
New analysis of Highways Agency data by Churchill Car Insurance highlights that, in the week leading up to Christmas, there will be 403 disruptions on A and M roads across the UK.
The worst affected motorway is set to be the M4, with 34 scheduled disruptions – of which 41% are moderate delays – expected to slow motorists down by up to 30 minutes. The M4 is one of the major routes to and from Heathrow Airport and, as such, Churchill suggests that drivers check traffic reports as well as allowing additional travel time if they are catching a flight before Christmas Day.
The M1, which connects London and Leeds, is the second most affected motorway, followed by the M621, the M6 and the M5. Those travelling in and around London should also be aware that the M25 has 16 planned roadworks in the week leading up to Christmas, two of which are expected to cause moderate delays of up to 30 minutes.
The most interrupted A road in the UK will be the A5 with 20 disruptions, 12 of which are expected to cause drivers delays of up to 30 minutes. Motorists should plan ahead and, if need be, seek alternative routes such as the A55 which runs parallel to the A5 in parts of Wales. The A12 is the second most disrupted arterial road, followed by the A1, the A421 and the A34.
Lane closures are expected to be the most prevalent type of road disruption, with 173 planned lane closures between 18 December and Christmas Day. This is followed by carriageway closures, with 134 disruptions, and width restrictions, with 26 disruptions.
The M4 tops the list for the most lane closures, with 21; this is followed by the M25 and the M6 with 14 closures each. Churchill Insurance warns that anyone travelling between the Midlands and London should allow for additional time for their journey, due to the delays they may face from lane closures.
Steve Barrett, head of Churchill Car Insurance, said: “Christmas is one of the few times in the year when whole families are able to get together, so at peak times there is extra activity on the roads.
“Our analysis shows that there are hundreds of road disruptions planned in the week before Christmas. Motorists should plan their journeys in advance and consider alternative routes, allowing more time for their travel, as there will inevitably be significant delays.”
