M4 roadworks this weekend - times and diversion routes

A huge section of the M4 will be closed this weekend as work continues to transform it into a smart motorway.

The road will be shut in both directions between junction 8/9 for Maidenhead and junction 10 for Wokingham and Bracknell.

Drivers due to make essential journeys in Berkshire are warned the closure could cause delays.

The M4 will be shut from 8pm on Friday, January 15 until 6am on Monday, January 18, while Highways England workers resurface, re-paint road markings and fit and upgrade barriers, signs and technology.

All drivers will be diverted along the A329M, A3290, A4 and A404M or by this route in reverse.

Drivers are advised to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys if possible. Those travelling at the weekend are reminded only essential journeys are allowed under the government's lockdown rules.

The work is part of a £848 million project to transform part of the motorway into four running lanes. The smart motorway between junction 3 for Hayes and junction 12 for Theale is due to open in 2022.

The works have also seen 11 bridges demolished and replaced over the motorway.

More closures will be in place at weekends for the rest of the month.