Drivers will be able to join the M27 westbound and leave it eastbound at Junction 10 for the first time as a £100 million-plus improvement scheme moves closer to completion.

The new eastbound off-slip and westbound on-slip opened today (12 October), completing access to and from the motorway in all directions, says Portsmouth News. The latest changes follow the opening of the westbound off-slip, motorway underpass and four new roundabouts last month.

Previously, the junction only allowed limited movements, with drivers able to leave the M27 westbound or join it eastbound.

Hampshire County Council said the main construction work remained on track to finish by winter 2026, although temporary traffic restrictions would remain in place while the final work was completed. An additional lane providing access to the eastbound M27 on-slip is expected to open in early winter.

Councillor Steve Forster, the county council’s cabinet lead for highways and passenger transport, said:

“Our teams are continuing to work hard to finish all elements of the Junction 10 scheme, having opened the first phase in September, and I am pleased to confirm more road space will be operational on Monday, October 12.

“We are now entering the final phase of the project, with main construction work on track for completion on schedule by winter 2026. Although the scheme will be open to road users, some traffic management will remain in place while we carry out the remaining activities.

“As part of this, we continue to work closely with National Highways, who will be taking the opportunity to carry out additional safety work on the M27 ahead of the final testing and checks that are required for new or altered sections of motorway. I would like to thank residents, businesses and road users for their patience as this complex programme of works nears completion.”

(Picture: Hampshire County Council)