M1: Year-long overnight closures planned on M1 in 2026
Drivers across Yorkshire are being warned to expect significant overnight disruption on the M1 throughout 2026 as National Highways prepares for an extensive programme of maintenance and improvement works.
In a notice issued under Section 14(1)(a) and 14(7) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, the agency announced its intention to introduce temporary traffic prohibitions on the M1 between Junction 30 (near Worksop) and Junction 48 (near Leeds). The works are scheduled to take place overnight between 8pm and 6am from 2 January 2026 until 23 December 2026.
National Highways says the closures are necessary to ensure maintenance crews can operate safely while carrying out upgrades across the busy stretch of motorway.
What the Order Covers
The planned restrictions include:
Full closures in both directions on the M1 between J30 and J48, including the East Link Road Interchange Roundabout and Austhorpe Interchange Roundabout
Closure of all slip roads and link roads feeding into or out of the affected section
Closure of all refuge areas along these lengths of carriageway
The exact timing and duration of each closure will vary depending on the specific works being undertaken on any given night.
Diversions and Exemptions
Traffic will be routed via clearly signed diversion routes using sections of the M1, M62, M621, A1(M) and local roads. National Highways stressed that diversions will be fully signposted to guide motorists.
The restrictions will not apply to emergency services, works vehicles, winter maintenance fleets or National Highways traffic officers.
The order will take legal effect on January 1, 2026 and remain in place until December 23, 2026, though it will only be enforced during active works as indicated by traffic signage.
To view the full order on the Public Planning Notice Portal, click here.
Motorists seeking more details are encouraged to contact the National Highways Customer Contact Centre on 0300 123 5000 or via [email protected]