£5.4m M5 safety barrier replacement programme begins near Exeter

A year-long motorway safety improvement scheme worth £5.4 million is starting today (1 May) on the M5 motorway near Exeter.

The works will take place between junction 29 at Sowton and junction 31 at Pearce’s Hill, an important route serving Exeter as well as traffic heading into Devon and Cornwall.

National Highways confirmed that around 12,212 metres — approximately 7.5 miles — of vehicle restraint system barriers will either be replaced or newly installed along both the northbound and southbound carriageways.

The programme is expected to continue for around 12 months, with completion targeted for May 2027.

No full motorway closures expected

The motorway will remain open while the work is carried out. Construction activities will mainly take place during overnight lane closures between Sunday and Thursday evenings when traffic volumes are lower.

National Highways said daytime reopening of lanes is expected in most cases, although temporary barriers and occasional 50mph speed restrictions may remain in place to protect motorists near unfinished work areas or excavations.

Purpose of the project

The upgrade forms part of a government-funded road safety initiative. Existing safety barriers on this section of the M5 have deteriorated over time and now require replacement, while additional barrier sections will be added to remove gaps in protection.

The scheme will also include related improvements to drainage systems, road signage and highway technology infrastructure.

Slip road closures planned

Drivers are also being warned about temporary overnight and weekend closures of some junction slip roads during the project.

According to National Highways, advance notice will be provided before any closures take effect, with diversion routes clearly signposted.

Motorists travelling regularly through this section of the M5 are being encouraged to monitor travel updates and allow additional journey time during periods of overnight work.