M11 Shut Both Ways After Five-Vehicle Smash Near Chigwell
The M11 is gridlocked after a serious five-car crash near Chigwell has forced authorities to close the motorway in both directions.
Crash Details & Emergency Response
The smash went down just before 5pm between Junction 4 (A406 North Circular Road) and Junction 6 (M25), close to Theydon Bois. Essex Police, Fire & Rescue, and National Highways Traffic Officers rushed to the scene.
Massive Delays & Diversions
- Both northbound and southbound carriageways remain blocked as emergency teams investigate and clear the wreckage.
- Drivers face delays topping 70 minutes, crawling at just 5mph between the North Circular and the M25.
- Heavy congestion is spreading to local roads as motorists try to dodge the chaos.
Motorists Urged to Avoid M11
Essex Police have issued a stark warning: avoid the area, plan your journey, and expect extra time on the roads.
Diversion routes in effect:
- Northbound traffic: Follow the solid diamond symbol via A406, A104, A121, and M25 Junctions 26 to 27 to rejoin the M11 north of the crash.
- Southbound traffic: Follow the reverse route along the same roads.
“Due to the severity of the collision and ongoing emergency service activity, the M11 is expected to remain closed for several hours. We urge drivers to check traffic updates before setting off,” said a National Highways spokesperson.
