Successful M25 noise reduction trial welcomed by MP

An MP has welcomed what she called a successful noise reduction scheme on the M25.

Rebecca Paul said National Highways had "significantly" reduced sound on a section of the motorway in Surrey, due to its next-generation concrete surfacing trial.

She added it would expand the project to seven more areas between junctions eight and nine in 2029-30.

"This is a very welcome breakthrough for residents who have had to live with excessive M25 noise for far too long," said the MP for Reigate.

The trial had "now clearly shown" that new surfacing could "make a real difference", she said, adding it was "making the motorway quieter for both nearby residents and drivers".

The Conservative politician added she would continue pressing National Highways for clear delivery dates on the next phases.

"We now need to see this new surfacing rolled out across as much of the junction as possible," she added.

Motorway noise affects residents in Mogador, Lower Kingswood and Walton-on-the-Hill, with average readings exceeding 65 decibels at busy times in some locations close to the motorway, Paul continued.

The problem is pronounced along older sections of the M25 where the concrete road surface and joints between individual slabs create a distinctive rumbling and repeated tyre-slap noise, according to the MP.

Sounds can be particularly noticeable at night and in certain weather conditions, she added.

The National Highways trial has two stages, Paul explained.

First joints between the slabs are repaired to reduce the clicking and slapping sounds as cars pass over them, she said.

"The existing concrete surface is then ground to create thin, uniform grooves, improving the driving experience and reducing tyre noise," the MP continued.

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