Part of the country's busiest road will close completely for the second time in its history with huge tailbacks predicted.

National Highways is shutting the M25 between junctions 9 and 10 for the whole weekend to make way for demolition works in one of the largest infrastructure projects since it opened in 1986. 

It will be closed from 9pm on Friday, May 10, until 6am on Monday, May 13. 

Motorists have been told to drive only if their journey is "absolutely necessary" as the unprecedented closure forces eight lanes worth of traffic through villages away from the motorway, with travellers to Gatwick Airport and the Channel ports at risk of being impacted.

Jonathan Wade, senior project manager at National Highways, said: “This is far from a repeat of the previous closure, as the alternative routes are longer and will be different for over-height vehicles and all other traffic. 

“Drivers listened to our advice last time which reduced motorway traffic levels by over two-thirds and meant delays were limited. 

“Our advice again is please only travel if absolutely necessary and make sure you give yourself extra time if you do choose to use the M25.” 

The works are part of the Junction 10 improvement scheme which will see an increase in the number of lanes to make journeys safer and a new junction layout to improve traffic flow.

A new bridge is being installed as part of ongoing work to make journeys safer and reduce pollution.

It will also make it easier and safer to enter and exit the M25 and reduce the pollution caused by traffic jams. 

This is the second of five full weekend closures of the M25 to take place with a further three due between July and the end of the year. 

National Highways has urged drivers to follow its travel advice, saying it will be "key to reducing congestion". 

Drivers using the signed diversion route won’t be subject to any ultra-low emission zone (Ulez) charges that may usually apply. The Ulez will remain in force on all other routes in London across the weekend.