A major upgrade at M25 Junction 28 near Brentwood, Essex is nearing completion, with work expected to wrap up by late summer 2025. With a total cost of £170 million, the project is designed to significantly improve traffic flow, accommodate future increases in vehicle volumes, and enhance safety for both drivers and pedestrians.
Why Is This Upgrade Important Now?
M25 Junction 28 is a key interchange that connects the M25 with the A12 and local roads like the A1023. It currently operates at full capacity, causing regular congestion and contributing to air quality issues in the surrounding area. National traffic projections suggest volumes at this junction could increase by 30% by 2037, making the upgrade essential to future-proof the network.
Project Highlights: What’s Changing on the Ground?
The M25 Junction 28 upgrade brings several critical infrastructure enhancements that aim to ease congestion and improve safety across the network. Here’s a breakdown of the recent milestones and upcoming improvements:
New Slip Roads and Merging Lanes
- A new extended slip road from Brook Street onto the M25 anticlockwise carriageway opened earlier this year. The longer design allows better visibility and more time for vehicles to accelerate safely.
- In March, an 800-meter off-slip from the A12 eastbound to Brook Street roundabout was completed. This replaces an older route and prepares the area for a new loop link from the M25 anticlockwise to A12 eastbound.
Pedestrian and Cyclist Route Upgrades
- The project also includes a focus on non-motorised users (NMUs), with improved pedestrian and cycle paths between Harold Wood and Brentwood.
- Key enhancements include widened footpaths and safer crossings—particularly around Maylands Way.
- The first section of the NMU route is nearly complete, with surfacing work expected to finish soon.
What’s Next for M25 Junction 28?
The final stages of the project will deliver:
- A dedicated loop link from the M25 anticlockwise to the A12 eastbound.
- Completion of the full NMU route.
- Full resurfacing and upgraded traffic signals at Brook Street roundabout, designed to boost traffic flow and reduce delays.
Impact on Daily Life: Safety, Air Quality, and Commute Times
By addressing current congestion and preparing for future growth, the upgrade will not only reduce travel delays but also contribute to improved air quality in the area. Safer infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists reflects a broader shift towards inclusive and sustainable mobility.
A Long-Term Investment in Regional Mobility
With construction led by contractor Graham, and key elements such as the heaviest beam lift completed last summer (involving 113-tonne steel beams for the Duckwood Bridge), this project marks a major investment in the UK’s strategic road network.
Once complete, M25 Junction 28 will be more efficient, resilient, and safer for all users.
For more insights into current infrastructure and road development projects, visit our Projects section on ArchUp.
