A “police-led incident” has caused significant traffic disruptions on the M25 near the QEII Bridge and Dartford Crossing. The M25/A282 is closed clockwise/southbound between Junction 30 (A13) and Junction 1a (Dartford) due to the incident. Emergency services are on the scene, leading to heavy traffic queues on this busy stretch of the motorway.
What’s happening on the M25?
The QEII Bridge has been closed southbound, and the eastbore tunnel for northbound traffic at the crossing is also shut. National Highways has stated that there is currently no estimated time for reopening. Northbound crossing traffic is confined to using the west bore Dartford tunnel only, with a height restriction of 4.8m (15’9″). Vehicles exceeding this height must seek alternative routes via the clockwise M25.
Motorists face delays of over 60 minutes on the M25 clockwise approaching the crossing. A diversion route has been advised, which includes the A13, A102, and A2, passing through the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). National Highways has warned drivers to plan ahead and consider their journeys carefully due to the significant disruption.
Impact on drivers
The closure affects not only southbound traffic on the QEII Bridge but also northbound traffic at the crossing, which is now confined to the west bore Dartford tunnel with a height restriction of 4.8 meters (15’9″).
Diversion details
Drivers are advised to follow the hollow triangle diversion symbol from the M25 Junction 30 interchange, taking the third exit onto the A13 towards Dagenham and Central London. This route passes through the ULEZ, so drivers should be aware of the emission zone requirements and ensure their vehicles comply to avoid penalties. Further information on ULEZ requirements can be found on the TfL website.