Drivers in Scotland are advised to prepare for disruption on the M74 motorway as several sections of the road are set to close this month. The closure is due to resurfacing works on the northbound carriageway between Junction 6 Hamilton and Motherwell.
What are the details and timings of the closure?
The closure will start at 8pm on Friday, November 10 and end at 6am on Monday, November 13. During this time, the road will be restricted to two lanes and the Hamilton Motorway Services on and off slip roads will also be closed. The closure will affect the traffic between Glasgow and Lanarkshire, as well as the access to the Hamilton services.
The closure is part of a £500,000 project to improve the condition and safety of the road surface. The project is funded by Transport Scotland and delivered by Amey.
What are the alternative routes and diversions?
Road users are advised to plan their journeys in advance and avoid the affected area if possible. Road diversion route signs will be in place over the weekend to guide the drivers to alternative routes. A 40 mile per hour speed restriction will also be enforced for the duration of the works to ensure the safety of road workers and road users.
The alternative routes and diversions are as follows:
- For traffic travelling northbound on the M74, exit at Junction 6 and follow the A723 Hamilton Road towards Motherwell. Then join the A721 Bellshill Road and follow it until the junction with the A8. Then join the A8 and follow it until the junction with the M73. Then join the M73 and follow it until the junction with the M74. Then rejoin the M74 northbound.
- For traffic travelling southbound on the M74, exit at Junction 5 and follow the A725 Bellshill Bypass towards Bellshill. Then join the A721 Bellshill Road and follow it until the junction with the A723. Then join the A723 Hamilton Road and follow it until the junction with the M74. Then rejoin the M74 southbound.
- For traffic wishing to access the Hamilton Motorway Services, exit at Junction 5 and follow the A725 Bellshill Bypass towards Bellshill. Then join the A721 Bellshill Road and follow it until the junction with the A723. Then join the A723 Hamilton Road and follow it until the junction with the B7071. Then turn left onto the B7071 and follow it until the entrance to the services.
What are the impacts and benefits of the closure?
The closure is expected to cause significant delays and congestion on the M74 and the surrounding roads, especially during peak hours and weekends. Drivers are advised to allow extra time for their journeys and check the traffic updates before travelling.
The closure is also expected to cause inconvenience and disruption to the local residents and businesses, especially those near the Hamilton services. The closure will affect the access to the services, which include a petrol station, a hotel, a restaurant, and a shop.
However, the closure is also expected to bring long-term benefits to the road users and the environment. The resurfacing works will improve the quality and durability of the road surface, which will reduce the need for future maintenance and repairs. The works will also enhance the safety and comfort of the drivers, as well as the fuel efficiency and emissions of the vehicles.
What are the reactions and opinions of the closure?
The closure has received mixed reactions and opinions from the public and the authorities. Some people have expressed their frustration and dissatisfaction with the closure, saying that it will cause chaos and inconvenience to the drivers and the commuters. Some people have also questioned the timing and the necessity of the closure, saying that it could have been done at a less busy time or in a different way.
However, some people have also expressed their support and appreciation for the closure, saying that it will improve the condition and the safety of the road. Some people have also praised the authorities and the contractors for their efforts and communication, saying that they have provided clear and timely information and guidance to the public.
The closure is a controversial and challenging issue, but also a necessary and beneficial one. The closure will test the patience and the cooperation of the road users and the authorities, but also bring positive and lasting outcomes to the road network and the environment.
