What's Happening?
Hampshire County Council and National Highways have commenced a complex engineering operation to slide an 8,500-tonne concrete structure into place as part of a new underpass construction on the M27 motorway. This project, which began on Friday afternoon,
involves a 'box slide' technique to move the structure 65 meters beneath the motorway. The operation is part of a £100 million initiative aimed at improving access to the M27, with the new junction expected to open in late 2026. The motorway is currently closed in both directions between Junction 9 for Whiteley and Junction 11 for Fareham until January 4. The new underpass will connect Fareham with the Welborne Garden Village development, which is set to include 6,000 homes. The project also involves creating a new dual carriageway with four roundabouts to link slip roads to the existing road network.
Why It's Important?
This infrastructure project is significant as it aims to enhance transportation efficiency and connectivity in the region. By improving access to the M27, the project is expected to facilitate smoother traffic flow and support the development of the Welborne Garden Village, which will provide housing for thousands of residents. The use of pioneering engineering techniques, such as the 'box slide', highlights advancements in construction technology that can lead to more efficient and less disruptive infrastructure projects. The development is likely to have a positive economic impact by improving logistics and accessibility, potentially attracting more businesses and residents to the area.
What's Next?
The completion of the underpass and the associated infrastructure improvements are scheduled for late 2026. In the meantime, the public is advised to stay away from the construction site due to safety concerns, as the operation involves complex machinery and restricted zones. The council has directed interested parties to follow the progress through social media updates and timelapse videos. Once completed, the new junction is expected to significantly improve traffic conditions and support the growth of the Welborne Garden Village.
