A major stretch of the A27 in Hampshire has been closed in both directions this morning following an accident involving an overturned trailer and a spillage of cooking oil.
The incident occurred shortly after 4:30am between the A259 Havant Road (Emsworth Junction, Havant) and A259 Cathedral Way (Fishbourne Roundabout, Chichester), causing significant disruption during the early hours and prompting a full road closure.
National Highways Confirms Closure
National Highways: South-East confirmed the closure in a social media update at 4:45am, stating:
“? NEW INCIDENT – A27 eastbound between A259 near #Emsworth and A259 near #Chichester #Hampshire.
ROAD CLOSED due to an overturned trailer and spillage of cooking oil.
More info to follow…”
Emergency services, including traffic officers and clean-up crews, are on site working to remove the vehicle and clear the hazardous spill, which has spread across the carriageway.
Hazardous Conditions and Diversions
The spilled cooking oil has made road conditions extremely slippery, raising safety concerns for other road users. Cleanup operations are expected to take several hours, and motorists are being advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes.
Local diversions are being put in place, though delays are likely on surrounding roads including the A259 and routes into Chichester and Havant.
Drivers Urged to Plan Ahead
The closure affects a key section of the A27—one of the south coast’s busiest routes—linking major Hampshire and West Sussex towns. With commuter traffic expected to increase as the morning progresses, motorists are being urged to:
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Use alternative routes such as the A3 or A272 where possible
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Check travel updates on National Highways and local radio
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Allow extra time for journeys
There are currently no reports of serious injuries, but emergency services have not yet confirmed the full extent of the incident.
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as the situation unfolds.
