Hornchurch & Upminster MP, Julia Lopez, has spoken with National Highways to discuss their planned light switch off along the M25 between Junctions 27 and 28, a section of the motorway which falling partly within the constituency.
The proposal saw lighting switched off from the main carriageway for an 18-month trial period, beginning 1 September 2025, while lighting at junctions and slip roads will remain in place.
During the meeting, National Highways outlined the reasoning behind the change:
- Since 2007, the agency has been reviewing motorway lighting and gradually removing it as it comes up for renewal.
- Research now suggests motorway lighting makes roads 10% safer, rather than the 30% safer previously assumed.
- Switch-offs on other parts of the M25 have generally been implemented without major issues.
There will now be an eighteen month trial of the switch-off to assess the impact on safety and local residents.
Julia said:
“While I appreciate the reasoning National Highways have given, my priority is ensuring that this decision does not compromise safety for motorists travelling along this key piece of the road network. I will continue to monitor the situation closely and push for a thorough review once the trial period has concluded.”
