Major A2 Old Kent Road Crash Shuts Road Both Ways Overnight
A huge section of the A2 Old Kent Road in Bermondsey was slammed shut in both directions after a serious crash late Tuesday night.
The closure stretched from Glengall Road to the Canal Bridge Interchange. It began around 11pm on August 27 and stayed in place through the night and into Wednesday morning while police launched a full investigation.
Crash Timeline: What We Know So Far
- 11pm (Tuesday): Crash reported near the Asda superstore at Malt Street junction. Emergency services rushed to the scene and sealed off the A2.
- Overnight: Locals flooded social media saying there was a “large police presence” with “more officers than seen in 30 years” in the area.
- 7.30am (Wednesday): Police confirmed the road closure remained to carry out collision investigation work.
- 8.06am: BBC London confirmed the crash site was near the Asda store.
- 8.21am: Police announced a formal inquiry is underway to piece together what happened.
- 8.36am: TfL stated bus routes 21, 53, 78, 172, and 453 were being diverted due to the closure.
- 8.55am: Local resident Paula Griffin shared the first photo from the scene showing police vehicles at the cordon.
- 9.17am: The A2 Old Kent Road remains closed both ways as investigation continues.
Local Chaos as Commuters Face Major Delays
The closure sparked serious disruption this morning. Drivers faced long delays on diversion routes cutting through Southwark and Bermondsey.
Transport for London urged passengers to check live updates before travelling as several key bus routes remain affected.
Witnesses React to Police Blitz
“Haven’t seen this many police down the Old Kent Road in more than 30 years living here,” one local said on social media.
Investigation Ongoing, Details Still Scarce
Police have yet to confirm the number of vehicles involved or report any injuries. Collision investigators remain at the scene as they dig for answers.
Travel chaos is set to continue with more updates expected throughout the day.