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Travel chaos on M25 in Kent as crash involving lorry and car closes Dartford tunnel

Traffic chaos on the M25 in Kent has finally started to ease, although tolls at the Dartford Crossing will not be reinstated until 6am on Saturday.

A smash, involving a lorry and car, and a large fuel spillage led to the closure of the tunnel on the anti-clockwise carriageway this afternoon.

It caused severe problems with drivers reporting delays of two or three hours, and queues stretching back to J4 for Orpington.

Long queues on the M25 in Kent after a crash at the Dartford Crossing
Long queues on the M25 in Kent after a crash at the Dartford Crossing

The Highways Agency decided to temporarily remove charges north-bound at the Dartford Crossing to ease the severe congestion.

A spokesman said: "The Highways Agency is doing all it possibly can to help keep traffic moving.

"The incident, which happened at around 2.30pm, involved an HGV and a car and led to a large diesel spillage at the exits of the tunnels.

"All lanes have reopened, but the charges will remain suspended northbound until congestion has eased."

Drivers have described the M25 as 'a car park' tonight. Picture: @tom_Oliphant
Drivers have described the M25 as 'a car park' tonight. Picture: @tom_Oliphant
An accident and fuel spillage led to long delays for Kent commuters
An accident and fuel spillage led to long delays for Kent commuters

It announced at 9.40pm that tolls would not be reinstated tonight.

Traffic had also built up in Dartford town centre and around Bluewater where drivers struggled to get out of the car park.

Motorists on social media are complained of stationary traffic and long delays.

Drivers were urged to consider alternative routes as traffic was also building up in surrounding areas, including Dartford town centre.

Drivers queue in car parks at Bluewater shopping centre
Drivers queue in car parks at Bluewater shopping centre
Drivers are struggling to get out of Bluewater car park. Picture: @JD07ADE
Drivers are struggling to get out of Bluewater car park. Picture: @JD07ADE
Long queues on the roads leaving Bluewater
Long queues on the roads leaving Bluewater

The accident happened at about 2.30pm near the Dartford Crossing toll booths.

It forced the closure of the tunnel until about 4.30pm while the fuel spillage was cleaned up.

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