UPDATE: Drivers across the UK are bracing for an estimated 20 million cars on the roads this Boxing Day, as families travel to reunite for the holidays and shoppers flock to sales. With traffic levels predicted to peak between 10 AM and 7 PM, motorists are urged to plan their journeys accordingly to avoid congestion.
The AA (Automobile Association) reports that 19.7 million car journeys are expected nationwide on December 26, followed by an even busier Saturday with 22 million trips anticipated. Key congestion hotspots have been identified, including:
– The M25 clockwise from Junction 7 to Junction 16
– The M25 anti-clockwise from Junction 17 to Junction 12
– The M40 northbound from Junction 8A to Junction 10
– The M1 southbound from Junction 16 to Junction 6
– The M6 northbound from Junction 5 to Junction 10A
In a survey of over 10,000 members, 60-63% cited visiting family and friends as their primary reason for travel during the festive period, with 47-52% planning shopping trips. 49% of respondents indicated they would take car journeys of up to 50 miles on Boxing Day, while 9% intend to travel further.
As travel ramps up, the AA predicts 18 million car trips on New Year’s Day, slightly lower than 18.3 million on Christmas Day. However, traffic is expected to surge again to 20.7 million on January 2 and peak at 22 million on January 5 as many return to work and school.
Drivers in southern England face additional challenges due to the ongoing closure of the M27 motorway between Junctions 9 and 11, which will remain in effect until 4 AM on January 4 for essential repairs. This closure disrupts key routes between Southampton and Portsmouth.
Shaun Jones, an expert from the AA, noted, “Throughout the festive season, we see a real mix of activity on the roads. Visiting family, shopping, and returning to work all contribute to traffic flow, even while long-distance trips are less common.” He added that New Year’s Day typically sees the lowest traffic levels, providing a brief respite before congestion returns on January 2.
Motorists not traveling during the festive season should prepare their vehicles for the new year by checking tyres, batteries, screenwash, and fuel levels. In anticipation of heavy traffic, National Highways has announced that over 90% of roadworks on motorways and major roads will be lifted by 6 AM on December 21, resuming only early on January 2.
Adding to the congestion, significant rail disruptions will continue over the coming days. The rail network will be shut down on Christmas Day, with most operators not running services on Boxing Day. Major engineering work on the West Coast Main Line will affect travel to and from London Euston until January 4. Notably, London Waterloo, one of the UK’s busiest stations, will remain closed to trains until the end of Sunday, with a reduced timetable in place until January 5.
Despite these challenges, 95% of Britain’s railways will operate without disruption during the holiday period, according to Network Rail.
As millions take to the roads this Boxing Day, preparation is key. Stay tuned for updates on traffic conditions and travel advisories as the holiday season progresses.
