The section between junctions 3 and 4 near Southampton will be shut to allow three gantries over the motorway to be installed.

The motorway will be closed between 10pm and 5.30am on Tuesday and Wednesday.

During these times, the Rownhams services will also be closed so drivers are advised to use others.

The motorway is being improved to allow a fourth lane to be built to reduce delays and congestion.

Stephen Coe, project manager for the Highways Agency, said: 'Installing these gantries is a key milestone for these works and when the scheme is complete they will provide information for drivers to help them plan their onward journeys.

'The closures to install the gantries will cause some delays for drivers but we are carrying out this work overnight when traffic flows are at their lowest to minimise disruption.

'The closures are necessary to ensure the safety of both our workforce and drivers while the gantries are installed.

'Therefore we would appeal to drivers to plan their journeys and try to avoid these times if possible or to use an alternative route.'

Further closures will also take place towards the end of the month.

Diversion routes will be clearly signed and drivers will be advised to use the A3057 and A27 from junctions 3 and 5.