M5 programme moves into next phase
Drivers in North Somerset are being warned to plan ahead as National Highways steps through the next stage of a substantial resurfacing and maintenance programme on the M5. The scheme combines overnight motorway closures in Somerset with separate lane and slip-road restrictions at Junction 20 (Clevedon), affecting journeys to and from the North Somerset coast and the wider network.
According to National Highways, the current package of works spans 38 nights and is scheduled to conclude by Thursday 6 August, subject to weather and site conditions. Phase one has already been completed between J24 (Huntworth) and J25 (Taunton) southbound, including the J24 entry slip.
What is closing and when
Phase two centres on the stretch between J23 and J24 southbound. From Sunday 19 July, the southbound carriageway on this section will be shut overnight between 8pm and 6am. Northbound lanes through the same area are expected to remain open during this phase, and the southbound route will operate as usual in daytime hours.
On completion of the second stage, a final set of closures is planned from Sunday 2 August to Thursday 6 August, when the northbound side between J24 and J23 will be closed overnight in all three lanes.
| Phase | Location | Direction | Timing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 (complete) | J24 to J25 | Southbound + J24 entry slip | Finished after works on Tue 14 July |
| Phase 2 | J23 to J24 | Southbound (incl. J24 exit slip) | Nightly 8pm–6am from Sun 19 July to Thu 30 July (planned) |
| Final phase | J24 to J23 | Northbound (all three lanes) | Nightly 8pm–6am from Sun 2 Aug to Thu 6 Aug (planned) |
Clevedon (J20) works in North Somerset
In parallel, crews are active around Junction 20 (Clevedon Interchange) in North Somerset. From Thursday 16 July, one lane on the M5 at this location is being taken out of use on weeknights, with additional full overnight closures listed between 8pm and 6am. National Highways also confirms forthcoming geotechnical activity requiring a closure of the southbound entry slip at J20 in September, with exact dates and times to be confirmed closer to the start.
These activities are part of a wider maintenance cycle across the South West. The agency notes recent work on refreshed road markings and studs between J22 (Burnham-on-Sea) and J31, and drainage activity near J26 (Wellington), the latter of which initially paused following the discovery of protected wildlife on site.
Planning your journey
Although some closures occur outside North Somerset, the knock-on effect can be felt across the M5 corridor, particularly where traffic diverts or rejoins near J20. Drivers should allow extra time for evening and overnight travel, check routes before setting off, and be prepared for lower speed limits and lane reductions through work zones.
- Expect overnight southbound closures between J23 and J24 from 19–30 July (planned).
- Anticipate overnight northbound closures between J24 and J23 from 2–6 August (planned).
- At J20 (Clevedon), one lane is closed on weeknights, with additional overnight closures scheduled.
- The J20 southbound entry slip is due to close for geotechnical works in September (dates to follow).
National Highways emphasises that dates and times can change at short notice due to weather, site conditions or operational requirements. Motorists can find the latest updates on the agency’s daily closures pages and via its travel alerts.
Why this matters locally
J20 provides access to Clevedon and routes towards Nailsea, Portishead and coastal communities. Even where the primary closures are to the south, any reduction in capacity or overnight shut-offs can alter traffic patterns on approaches to the interchange, particularly for freight, night workers and airport runs via the M5 spine. Keeping to signed diversions, allowing extra time for late‑evening trips and checking live information before departure will help reduce the risk of getting caught at the barriers at cut-off times.
This slate of works has been sequenced to avoid clashes with other major road schemes locally, including Somerset Council’s concrete renewal at J26 and the Chelston link road. The programme aims to consolidate maintenance tasks into set windows to minimise repeated disruption later in the year.
As always with multi-night resurfacing and geotechnical operations, progress depends on favourable conditions. Anyone driving the M5 corridor during the stated windows should plan around the 8pm–6am closure periods, pay attention to on-site signage and traffic officers, and monitor National Highways channels for any late changes.
