M25 Anti-Clockwise Closure: Lorry Fires Cause Major Delays

Two lorry fires have led to the closure of the M25 anti-clockwise between junctions 28 and 26, causing significant delays and requiring drivers to use alternative routes.

The M25 in Essex is facing significant disruptions due to two separate lorry fires, according to National Highways. The motorway has been closed anti-clockwise between junction 28 and junction 26, affecting rush hour traffic and causing delays for motorists.

The first incident occurred around 3am between junction 27 and 26, while the second lorry fire shut the motorway between junctions 28 and 27. Essex Police and Essex County Fire and Rescue Service are at the scene, along with National Highways traffic officers, to manage the situation and ensure safety.

Specialist Recovery and Clean-Up Efforts

Specialist recovery is currently underway to remove the heavy goods vehicle that caught fire between junctions 27 and 26. Fire and rescue services are leading the response, with support from National Highways traffic officers.

The intensity of the blaze has led to bright orange flames and a gulf of smokeas captured in pictures released by the organization.

Repairs or clean-up may be required before the road can reopen. At this stage, no reopening time is available, and the closure is expected to extend into the morning peak travel period. Motorists are advised to allow extra journey time, plan ahead, or even delay their journeys to avoid the affected area.

Diversion Routes and Traffic Management

Due to long-term roadworks at Gallows Cornerthe usual diversion route cannot be used. Instead, drivers looking to travel anti-clockwise between J28 and J26 are advised to follow an alternative route. Motorists must exit the M25 on the A12 eastbound at junction 28 and continue along the A12 eastbound towards junction 15.

From there, they should exit the A12 at junction 15 onto the A414 northbound towards Chelmsford. At the Widford roundabout, drivers can take the first exit and continue on the A414 westbound. After continuing along the A414 westbound to junction 7 of the M11, they can take the first exit onto the M11 southbound. Afterwards, they can exit the M11 onto the A406 westbound and continue for approximately 6 miles to the junction with the A10.

Drivers can then rejoin the M25 at junction 25 by taking the A10 northbound. National Highways has asked people to allow extra journey time, plan ahead, re-route, or even delay their journeys. The agency’s 24/7 contact centre team is also available to provide up-to-the-minute information on 0300 123 5000.

Expected Delays and Traffic Congestion

National Highways has warned of 72-minute delays on approach to the junctions with five miles of congestion. The closure is expected to impact rush hour, with significant delays and traffic congestion anticipated. Motorists are advised to stay informed about the latest updates and consider alternative routes to avoid the affected area.

All emergency services are at the scene, and updates are expected to follow as the situation develops. Drivers are encouraged to check for the latest traffic information and plan their journeys accordingly to minimize disruptions.