Major police incident shuts QE2 Bridge on M25 Dartford Crossing this morning, causing chaos for drivers. The critical stretch from Junction 31 (A1306 Lakeside/Purfleet) to Junction 1A (A206 Dartford) is closed to clockwise traffic, sparking heavy disruption.
Clockwise traffic forced through Dartford Tunnel
Since 3:12 AM, clockwise vehicles have been diverted through one of the Dartford Tunnels, which is running temporarily in reverse to keep traffic flowing from Essex into Kent. But there’s a catch — this tunnel has a 5-metre height restriction, blocking access for some high-sided lorries and HGVs.
Emergency services remain at the scene as the reason for the police incident remains unclear. Authorities acted swiftly to shut the bridge and set up the diversion.
Anti-clockwise lanes squeezed, more headaches for drivers
The diversion is also causing a bottleneck for anti-clockwise traffic heading back from Kent to Essex. On the M25 anticlockwise stretch from J1A to J31, two lanes are closed to dedicate one tunnel to clockwise traffic. Traffic moving anti-clockwise must use the left-hand tunnel which has a lower height limit of 4.8 metres.
Drivers of taller vehicles face warnings they may be barred from this restricted route, adding to the M25 misery.
Severe delays expected on one of UK’s busiest routes
With just one tunnel operating each way, traffic capacity is slashed. Despite the Easter holidays, the Dartford Crossing remains a critical artery and roads including the A13 and A282 are clogged with gridlock.
National Highways advises motorists to avoid the area if possible, choose alternative crossings or delay journeys until the chaos clears.
What drivers must know
- QE2 Bridge closed clockwise due to police incident
- All clockwise vehicles diverted through Dartford Tunnel (5m height limit)
- Anti-clockwise traffic restricted, two lanes closed; only low tunnel (4.8m) open
- Severe delays expected during the morning rush
Stay tuned for updates and check live traffic reports or local radio before you travel.
