Overview
- National Highways has removed lane closures between Eastleigh (J5) and Hedge End (J7), restoring four-lane running after the first stage of technology testing.
- A temporary 50mph limit remains in place for final testing and recommissioning, with officials indicating the normal 70mph limit should return around late June.
- The upgrade laid 180mm of low‑noise asphalt over the existing concrete and added drainage improvements and stronger central reservation barriers to boost safety and durability.
- Crews will carry out a run of overnight slip‑road closures to take down temporary traffic management and fit permanent signs before full-speed running resumes.
- Officials say the quieter surface targets several Noise Important Areas along the route, while local hauliers report the two-year works slowed vehicles and squeezed revenues.