The M27 has reopened for the first time in over two years with lower speed limits after a multi-million-pound project completed key constructions.
The motorway has been undergoing key road improvements between junctions 5 and 7, where a new low-noise surface was installed, and drainage changes were made.
While the junctions have reopened this morning, National Highways has kept the 50mph speed limit restrictions in place as the final stage of testing and recommissioning progresses.
The lower speed limit is expected to stay in place until mid-June, at which point the transport organisation will remove temporary traffic measures.
Richard Scrase, programme delivery manager at National Highways, said: "This project has already delivered a quieter road surface between junctions 5 and 7. We've also carried out significant drainage upgrades and improved safety in the central reservation.
"Together, these improvements have created a smoother, quieter and safer journey for drivers, while helping the road last for generations to come."
The agency explained how the road surface was designed to have an average life span of 50 years, with concrete roads having proved tough and durable over the years.
However, the surface reportedly reached the stage where it needed to be repaired or replaced for safety reasons, to reduce noise and improve driving conditions.
The motorway junctions will operate at lower speed limits temporarily
|GETTY/NATIONAL HIGHWAYS
The thick asphalt overlay on the M27 will ensure the concrete remains stable and durable over the next few years.
The M27 junctions pass through several Noise Important Areas, with the new low-noise surface aiming to reduce noise and benefit the communities living near the road.
Hampshire County Councillor Nick Adams-King shared: "After what feels like a very long stretch of cones and lane closures, National Highways have confirmed that the current lane restrictions between junctions 5 and 7 will be removed.
"That will be a welcome relief for everyone who uses this section of motorway, and I suspect we'll all enjoy seeing four lanes open again!"
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To help with the repair, National Highways closed the junctions overnight between 9pm and 6am
|NATIONAL HIGHWAYS
He warned residents of the temporary 50mph speed limit, which will remain in place while final testing is completed.
"Now, I don't want to be cynical, but in roadworks terms, 'later in the spring' has been known to drift gently into something resembling July," he stated.
One Facebook commenter questioned the lower speed limits, saying: "How about we just say no, enough is enough, and you can't test anything unless you are using it to its full capacity, which includes a 70mph speed limit.
The M27 junctions have been undergoing resurfacing for the past two years
|NATIONAL HIGHWAYS
"It's time to stop letting these things interfere with people's lives without an actual, sensible reason, not just a made-up one because we say it's needed."
National Highways defended the project, stating that "altogether these measures will ensure a smoother ride for drivers, make the road quieter, improve safety and ensure the road lasts longer".