I am writing to update you on our progress on the second and third sections of the upgraded M1 motorway between junctions 13 and 16.

Four lanes on the 9.4-mile stretch between Newport Pagnell Services and junction 15 (Northampton) of the M1 are already available for traffic with a 60mph speed limit.

The third section of the upgraded motorway on the M1 between junction 15 (Northampton) and junction 16 (Upper Heyford Interchange) is due to be open as four traffic lanes by Friday 18 November 2022.

A 60mph speed limit, temporary additional CCTV and a free recovery service will remain in place (alongside the new permanent systems) whilst we calibrate the newly installed technology.

The phased opening of this stretch will continue over the coming months, with the second and third link moving to 70mph once we have ensured the road is fully compliant with our safety standards. The upgraded motorway will be fully operational between junctions 13 to 16 by March 2023.

You may have seen that we still are showing some road closures on our scheme website at www.nationalhighways.co.uk/M1junction13-16. This is because we still need to carry out some finishing work and there will be some overnight closures between junction 14 and 16 to install low-noise surfacing in lanes two and three, bridge joint, white lining, and road stud works. This work is expected to complete by mid-December.

Works on the M1 junction 15 roundabout and slip roads will continue for the Rail Freight Interchange development (which is being constructed by Winvic) and will need some 24-hour road closures. Work to reconstruct the carriageway at the junction 15 roundabout, slip roads and A45 started at the end of May 2021, and will continue until the end of December 2022. Further information on the Rail Freight Interchange development can be found here

If you have any questions, or if you would like any further information about the M1 project, please feel free to contact us on 0300 123 5000, or email the project team at M1J13-16Smart@nationalhighways.co.uk

Road users can also keep up to date on road closures by visiting our Traffic England website at www.trafficengland.com.