Motorists are facing significant delays on the M23 in West Sussex this morning after a serious single-vehicle collision involving a lorry led to the full closure of the southbound carriageway between Junction 10 (Crawley) and Junction 11 (Pease Pottage).
The crash occurred around 4:00am when a lorry veered across the central reservation, rupturing its fuel tank and spilling a large quantity of diesel across the carriageway. The impact also caused extensive damage to the central reservation barrier, prompting emergency response from Sussex Police, West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, South East Coast Ambulance, and National Highways.
Recovery and Road Conditions
Recovery of the lorry was completed at approximately 7:25am, but the southbound route remains shut as emergency teams assess road surface conditions and determine whether resurfacing is required due to diesel contamination.
Additionally, Lane 3 (of 3) on the northbound carriageway is closed because of barrier damage, causing further disruption to traffic in the area.
Diversion Information
Drivers are being advised to follow the hollow diamond diversion symbol:
- Exit at J10 (Crawley)
- Follow the A2011 westbound toward Tushmore Gyratory
- Continue onto the A23 southbound
- Re-join the M23 at J11 (Pease Pottage)
National Highways is advising motorists to allow extra time, plan alternative routes, and expect extended delays throughout the morning.
Stay Updated
For live updates and further information:
- Visit: www.trafficengland.com
- Call: 0300 123 5000 (24/7 traffic info)
- Follow: @HighwaysSEAST on X (formerly Twitter)
Incident Summary
- Location: M23 Southbound, J10–J11 (Crawley to Pease Pottage)
- Time of Incident: ~4:00am, 18 May 2025
- Involved: One lorry
- Impact: Full southbound closure; partial northbound restriction
- Status: Ongoing emergency assessment
