Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she has had discussions with the National Highways Agency on closures of the M5 between Junction 22 and Junction 24.

The Secretary of State has not held discussions with National Highways about the closures of the M5 between junctions 22 and 24.

National Highways has delegated authority to make operational and maintenance delivery decisions, particularly where action is required to address safety, network resilience or another emergency to maintain the safe and effective operation of the network.

National Highways considers that the restrictions are necessary to renew safety barriers and drainage assets in the central reservation which are approaching the end of their service life. These works are essential to maintain the safety and resilience of the M5 through Somerset. National Highways has briefed Somerset Council and coordinated the overnight closures to avoid clashes with the Somerset carnival season.