M1 central barrier upgrade enters second phase

The barrier is being changed from wire to concrete to improve safety

Drivers are being warned to expect delays on the M1 near Leeds as the second phase of work to improve the central barrier is set to begin.

National Highways is replacing the existing wire rope barrier with a concrete one between junction 47 at Parlington and junction 43 at Belle Isle.

It said the new barriers were stronger and significantly reduced the risk of vehicles crossing over from one carriageway to another.

The first phase of work began in March between junctions 46 and 47. The second phase will see work carried out between junctions 43 and 45.

National Highways is carrying out the work in two phases

During the work the motorway will be reduced from three to two lanes in both directions, and will have a 50mph speed limit while the work is carried out.

Daniel Edwards, National Highways Project Manager, said: "We have managed to get a lot of work completed ahead of schedule.

"As a result, we’re able to reduce the overall length of this scheme and begin the next phase on 5 August."

The work between junctions 46 and 47 is expected to continue until October this year while the second phase is currently scheduled to be complete in May 2025.

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