Reading FC has warned supporters of major travel disruption for the upcoming home match against Notts County due to a scheduled closure of the M4. The club confirmed the motorway will be shut on Saturday 19 September, the same day as the League One fixture at the Select Car Leasing Stadium. This news was first reported by Wokingham.Today. The Royals, currently 23rd in League One with one point from two games, are asking fans to allow extra time for their journeys.
Reading FC held what it called "constructive discussions" with Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) and National Highways after learning of the planned closure. The club expressed disappointment that it was not consulted before the works were announced. Club officials raised specific concerns about the timing's impact on supporters, the wider Reading community, and strain on local roads.
Why is the M4 closing on match day?
The M4 closure is linked to essential electricity infrastructure works being carried out by SSEN. Reading FC asked if these essential works could be moved to another weekend ahead of SSEN's deadline. However, the club was told shifting the closure was not possible due to existing operational arrangements. Reading FC acknowledged the "essential nature" of the upgrade work but stressed the importance of minimising disruption for thousands of travelling fans.
What is Reading FC doing to help fans?
The club is now working with SSEN, National Highways, and local partners to identify practical measures. The goal is to help supporters plan their journeys and reduce pressure on the local road network around the stadium. Further detailed travel advice will be issued to fans before the fixture as these discussions continue. Supporters are strongly advised to check the latest travel information from official sources before setting off for the match.
How does this affect Reading's season context?
The travel warning comes during a challenging start to the 2026/27 season for Reading. The team sits 23rd in the League One table, having taken just one point from their opening two matches. Their recent form is listed as DL, with three goals scored and four conceded so far. They are already six points behind early leaders Blackpool. The immediate focus, however, is on the next home game against Mansfield Town on 2 September, a match you can find on our fixtures page. Fans will hope for a positive result to build momentum before the complicated travel day for the Notts County game three weeks later.
The club's primary message is for fans to plan ahead. With the M4 closure confirmed, alternative routes will be busier and journey times will be longer. Reading FC's efforts are now focused on collaboration with authorities to provide clear guidance and mitigate the impact as much as possible. Supporters can stay updated on all club news and the latest standings via the official website.
