Significant travel disruption on the M25 and at the Dartford Crossing is expected to continue into the evening as repair work progresses following two major incidents.
HGV Fire Between Junctions 5 and 6
A serious HGV fire was reported just after 10 pm yesterday (Sunday) between junction 5 near Sevenoaks and junction 6 near Godstone on the clockwise carriageway. Fire crews attended the scene for 10 hours, but the blaze caused extensive damage to the road surface and the central reservation barrier.
The recovery operation has been complicated due to the severity of the fire, which disintegrated parts of the vehicle. Debris remains scattered across the carriageway, and specialist cutting equipment is now being used to dismantle the remaining sections of the HGV on site.
Hydraulic Liquid Spill at Dartford Crossing
In a separate incident, hydraulic liquid leaked during overnight maintenance in one of the northbound tunnels at the Dartford Crossing. The east tunnel remains closed as approximately 400 meters of road surface require resurfacing. This closure has reduced northbound traffic capacity by 50%.
Drivers are advised that the tunnel closure will likely remain in place for the rest of the day, with severe congestion expected during rush hour.
https:///www.youtube.com/watch?v=ueOVmQ3GVto&t=55s
HGV Driver Advisory
HGV drivers should note that over-height vehicles cannot access the remaining northbound tunnel due to a height restriction of 15ft 9” (4.8m). Affected drivers are advised to use the clockwise M25 and follow the designated diversion routes.
Travel Information
Motorists are urged to stay updated by checking the Travel Alerts section of the National Highways website for the latest information on diversions and road conditions. Authorities are working around the clock to resolve the issues and minimize disruption, but significant delays are anticipated.
Drivers are encouraged to plan alternative routes where possible and allow extra time for their journeys.
