A major multi-vehicle collision has forced the closure of the M23 southbound between Junction 9 (London Gatwick Airport) and Junction 10 (Crawley), causing significant delays for motorists.
Emergency services, including Surrey Police, Surrey Fire and Rescue Service, and South East Coast Ambulance Service, responded swiftly to the incident, which occurred earlier today. National Highways Traffic Officers are also on the scene, assisting with traffic management.
Incident Details and Current Status
The exact number of vehicles involved and the extent of injuries have not yet been confirmed. However, reports suggest that several vehicles collided, leading to debris and obstructions across the southbound carriageway.
Emergency crews are working diligently to clear the scene, assist those involved, and investigate the cause of the crash. Motorists are urged to avoid the area, as delays are expected to last for several hours.
Diversion Route
National Highways has issued the following diversion advice for drivers affected by the closure:
- Exit the M23 southbound at Junction 9 onto the Gatwick Spur.
- Take the 2nd exit at the roundabout to Junction 9A.
- At the Airport Way Roundabout (J9A), take the 2nd exit towards North Terminal/Redhill.
- At the next roundabout, take the 4th exit onto the A23 London Road heading towards Crawley/Redhill.
- At the Longbridge Roundabout, take the 4th exit to turn back and join the A23 eastbound.
- Continue on the A23 for approximately 4 miles to reach the Tushmore Gyratory with the A2011/A2219.
- Take the 1st exit onto the A2011 and proceed to rejoin the M23 at Junction 10.
Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time and consider alternative routes if possible.
Travel Advice
A spokesperson for National Highways said:
“We understand the disruption this incident has caused and are working closely with emergency services to reopen the road as quickly and safely as possible. We urge all drivers to follow the diversion routes and to plan ahead for additional delays.”
For real-time traffic updates, motorists can visit Traffic England, use travel apps, or follow National Highways’ regional X (formerly Twitter) feed. Alternatively, drivers can contact the 24/7 National Highways contact centre at 0300 123 5000 for up-to-the-minute information.
Safety Reminder
With the M23 being a critical route connecting London Gatwick Airport to Crawley and other southern destinations, today’s incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and attentiveness while driving.
Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
