These MA60s look to be in a bit of trouble as this section of the M25 between J28 and 29 is being widened. A counterflow is already in operation, and the work is due to be completed in summer 2011, so I feel that these MA60s' days are numbered and will probably be replaced with Sapphires, as that's what other stretches have had their MA60s replaced with in such schemes in the last few years. The GEC Bricks along by Stapleford Airfield between J27 and 28, according to Alex, have recently been replaced by Sapphires, so that's what made me guess it will be Sapphires which will be lighting this section from next year.

It is a great shame

I remember this stretch very well, it's the way we go when visiting family in Kent. I can always remember from a young age these particular MA60s (and the GEC Bricks, which have been recently replaced). Shame that they will be going, and it's quite surprising how they've fared over the years. With only a handful missing their bowls!

Yes, a great shame indeed! I caught a glimpse of the stretch through J28 at Brook Street a couple of weeks ago as well - it is indeed Sapphires which are replacing the MAs! The MAs are still in place through the junction, however, so the Sapphires are probably not in nightly service yet.