The Queen Elizabeth II bridge at the Dartford Crossing has been closed, leading to significant congestion on the M25 this afternoon. Essex Police responded to the scene following concerns for a man's welfare, with other emergency services also in attendance. The duration of the closure remains uncertain.
Impact on Traffic
The bridge, which connects junction 31 of the M25 at Lakeside and Purfleet with junction 1A in Dartford, Kent, has been shut since approximately 11am. A diversion via the Dartford Tunnels is in place. Traffic queues are reported to stretch up to eight miles on the M25, and drivers are advised to avoid the area.
Live Updates
Police-led incident causing huge delays: According to National Highways, the QEII bridge (A282) southbound remains closed between J31 and J1A due to a police-led incident. Vehicles caught within the closure are being turned around from the back of the queue. Delays are currently 90 minutes clockwise and 30 minutes anticlockwise, and these are expected to extend into rush hour.
The closure is anticipated to continue into the afternoon, potentially affecting the evening rush hour. Follow our live coverage for the latest updates on this developing situation.
