National Highways is tackling flooding issues along the M50 in Worcestershire with a major maintenance scheme that will run the length of the motorway. The drainage system on both sides of the carriageway between M50 junction 4 and M5 junction 8 will be targeted in the scheme. The work will include cleaning, repairs and removing vegetation from the drainage system.

National Highways Project Manager Dan Bothwick said:

“We know there have been issues with flooding in some areas along this route and so are taking action to repair and improve drainage along the length of the motorway. There is a lot of ground to cover and we appreciate this will cause some disruption for road users and communities but we will do the work at night when we know traffic numbers are lower. Once completed, drainage will be improved and we will provide a safer carriageway for road users.”

Work, which begins on Monday 28 July, will be carried out in phases to reduce the impact on traffic and is expected to continue until next April. It will take place overnight, between 8pm and 6am.

To ensure the safety of the workforce and road users, lane closures and some full carriageway closures will be required.

“When it is essential that we close the road, we will also take the opportunity to carry out such important works as grass cutting, repairing barriers, cleaning signage and other tasks that would otherwise involve a further closure,” Borthwick added.

“We will consider whether any resurfacing work can be carried out and also carry out repairs to damaged safety netting between junctions 4 and 3. We want to utilise the closures as much as possible to avoid further disruption for drivers.”

(Pic: National Highways)