Chaos on the A12: Serious Crash Shuts Eastbound Carriageway in Essex
Motorists are bracing for major delays on the A12 in Essex after a severe crash forced the closure of the eastbound carriageway between Junction 15 (Webbs Farm Interchange) and Junction 17 (Howe Green Interchange).
Essex Police Investigate Crash
The closure was put in place to allow emergency services and Essex Police to carry out a thorough investigation. The collision, which happened earlier today, has caused gridlock for commuters heading towards Basildon, Southend (A130), and Great Baddow (A1114).
National Highways Unveil Lengthy Diversion Route
To ease the carnage, National Highways has rolled out a detailed diversion:
- Exit the A12 at Junction 15.
- Take the second exit at the roundabout onto the A414 (Three Mile Hill).
- Continue to the Widford Roundabouts.
- At the first roundabout, take the second exit; at the second, the first exit onto the A1016.
- Follow the A1016 through Chelmsford to the A131 roundabout near Belstead Hall.
- Take the third exit onto the A131.
- At General Lanes Roundabout (Junction 19), access Junctions 16, 17, or 18 via signed routes on the westbound A12.
- Re-join the eastbound A12 by taking the fourth exit at the first roundabout off the A131.
Plan Ahead – Expect Massive Delays
Drivers are urged to allow extra journey time and explore alternative routes if possible. National Highways warns the peak travel period could see journey times ballooning.
Stay updated via:
- www.trafficengland.com
- National Highways 24/7 Contact Centre: 0300 123 5000
- Live updates on @HighwaysEast on X (formerly Twitter)
So far, the cause of the crash and the extent of any injuries remain unknown. Essex Police will release more information once their on-site investigation wraps up.
