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.
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
