Traffic warning as M25 closure clashes with Euro 2024 final and Wimbledon: Here’s everything you need to know

The AA has warned Brits heading to London for the final game of the Euros to plan ahead to avoid disruption caused by the construction of a new bridge.

The M25 section between Junction 10 and Junction 11 in Surrey, one of its busiest, will be shut in both directions from 9pm Friday 12 July to 6am Monday 15 July. It means a 10-mile diversion will be in place using the A3, A240, A245.

It marks the third-ever full closure of the M25. National Highways is building a bridge on the western side of the roundabout at Junction 10. Closures have taken place in March and May already this year to accommodate for major building works.

England’s last gasp winner against the Netherlands on Wednesday sent the Three Lions to their second Euro final in just as many tournaments. Sunday is expected to be the biggest match in decades and all available flights to Berlin are sold out after the final whistle last night, leaving fans with no choice but to drive. Major ports in Hull and Dover and the Channel Tunnel will be extremely busy and likely to experience delays, the AA warned.

It also flagged potential disruption affecting travel to London to watch the Euros final televised in one the many fan zones.

Travel to Heathrow, Gatwick and the South Coast will also be affected, while those heading to Legoland and Thorpe Park should be weary given forecasts of warmer weather, the AA said.

Signed diversion routes will be in place throughout the weekend. For those travelling from Junction 10 to 11, drive northbound on the A3 to Painshill Junction, then take the A245 to Woking, before coming back to Junction 11 via the A320.

For those travelling the opposite way, take the A320 south towards Woking, A245 towards Byfleet and Painshill Junction, and then the southbound A3 to Junction 10. Taking the M25 via the Dartford Crossing may also be quicker.

Drivers should stick strictly to the signed diversion routes to avoid any Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) charges that may apply to vehicles which don’t meet emissions standards.

Chris Wood, AA Patrol of the Year, said: “With many footbal fans changing their plans following England’s victory of Holland, it’s likely to be incredibly busy in and around London, particularly the M25 Junctions 10 to 11 as well as major ports. We advise drivers to plan their journey accordingly, avoiding the west side of the M25 if possible, and to check ferry and tunnel operator’s websites for updates before setting off.

“Prepare your vehicle before setting off by checking oil and coolant levels, tyres and make sure you have enough fuel or electric charge to cover the planned diversions. Also, pack plenty of cold drinks and snacks for passengers.

“Our advice to drivers making a last-minute trip to Germany without tickets for the game is to make sure they have all the correct documentation and to check for parking and fan zone updates local to the area they’re heading to, as travel and visitor restrictions are highly likely to be in place.”

Drivers of over-height vehicles should visit the National Highways website for information on an alternative route.