National Highways has explained what is happening on the M27 when drivers see lanes closed with crews not doing any work.

Most motorists have found themselves driving past a set of road works with it appearing no work is happening - National Highways has explained exactly what is happening behind the scenes on the M27 when workers are not visible. 

National Highways is currently completing an £83m resurfacing scheme between junction 5 and 7 - with two lanes each side currently blocked for work crews.  

Richard Scrase, programme delivery manager at National Highways has explained what is happening when workmen are not visible on the M27. 

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He said: "One occasion where it might seem to drivers that nothing is happening is between workmen shifts - we have a day and night shift but there is a period of changeover. 

"Another instance is when we are waiting for material on the road surface to cool down and cure when we are resurfacing - that can take hours.

"Also there could be occasions when concrete and other materials need time to set. 

"Of course we also have public holidays but with that said many of our crews are also choosing to work the weekend as well.

"The stretch of road crews are working on is also very narrow - meaning work could be going on further up the lanes."