Milton Keynes to get new ‘hamburger’ roundabout, causing six months of road closures and diversions
Drivers are set to face around six months of road closures and diversions as a Milton Keynes roundabout shuts for a “hamburger” redesign.
Monkston roundabout will close during major construction from January to summer 2027, with bus services along the V11 diverted or suspended during some phases.
The transformation will bring an unfamiliar layout to a city famed for its roundabouts.
Milton Keynes has more than 130 roundabouts, according to tourism organisation Destination Milton Keynes, but this junction will operate differently from a conventional roundabout.
The council explains that the “hamburger” name comes from its appearance from above: the circular roundabout resembles a bun, with the road running through its middle representing the burger.
That central road will allow straight-ahead traffic to pass directly through the junction without travelling around the roundabout.
Drivers approaching on the V11 will also face different lane arrangements. Those turning right will need to approach in the left-hand lane and follow the road markings around the roundabout.
Traffic signals will control whether vehicles travel through the centre or around the junction, depending on their destination.
Milton Keynes City Council says the changes are needed to accommodate future traffic growth and reduce congestion.
Preparatory works will begin in November under temporary traffic management, with lane closures expected during the approximately four-week programme.
These will involve trial holes, utility diversions and vegetation clearance before the main construction programme, which the council’s website says will start on January 11, 2027.
Responding to questions about the scheme, the council confirmed: “The main works will take around six months to complete and will take place from January through to summer 2027 and will be under a full road closure.”
The construction programme includes replacing lighting columns, carriageway surfacing, building the new roundabout and installing traffic signals, signs and road markings.
Landscaping and other associated works will also be carried out.
Diversions will direct motorists onto nearby grid roads throughout the works. The council said construction vehicles would use designated routes and avoid residential streets near the site.
Pedestrian routes will remain open wherever possible. Where sections must close for safety, alternative routes will be signposted.
Bus stop suspension notices will be displayed on shelters, with further information on the council’s Bus Diversions and Disruptions webpage.
The scheme is funded through developer contributions towards infrastructure needed to support growth.
An earlier council consultation report listed construction for winter 2025/spring 2026, subject to utility diversions.
Asked about the changed timetable, the council said projects of this size could be affected by additional planning or design work and unforeseen circumstances.
The council said it would explain how the new layout works and keep residents informed as construction progresses.
Traffic-modelling videos are already available through its project webpage, while work permits, restrictions and any necessary pedestrian diversions will be listed on One.Network.