M23 Motorway Closed Near Gatwick Airport Following Serious Collision
A serious collision has led to the closure of the M23 motorway near Gatwick Airport, causing significant traffic disruptions and long delays during the morning rush hour. The incident occurred just after 5:30 am on Thursday, 2 April 2026, on the northbound carriageway between junction 10 at Crawley and junction nine for Gatwick Airport.
Emergency Services Respond to Scene
Emergency services, including Sussex Police and National Highways Traffic Officers, are currently at the scene managing the situation. According to police statements, a car carrying two men and a woman collided with the central reservation and a tree while travelling northbound. The authorities have launched an investigation into the single-vehicle collision and are appealing for witnesses or dashcam footage to assist with their inquiries.
Extended Closure and Traffic Impact
National Highways has warned that due to the serious nature of the collision, the northbound carriageway is expected to remain closed for several hours. This has resulted in heavy traffic congestion, with delays reported to be up to one and a half hours in some areas. Motorists are advised to expect ongoing disruptions and plan alternative routes accordingly.
Diversion Route Details
To mitigate the impact, a diversion route has been established for road users. Drivers are instructed to follow the solid square diversion symbol on road signs: exit the M23 at junction 10, take the third exit onto the eastbound A264, follow this to the A22 junction, turn left onto the A22, continue to M25 junction 6, join the M25 clockwise, and then rejoin the M23 at junction 7 to continue their journey.
Traffic Conditions and Warnings
Traffic England has indicated that normal traffic conditions may not resume until around 10 am, but this is subject to change based on the ongoing investigation and clearance operations. National Highways has been providing regular updates via social media, reporting delays of up to 50 minutes earlier in the morning, with queues forming rapidly during peak travel times.
This incident highlights the challenges of motorway safety and the importance of emergency response coordination in managing such events. Commuters and travellers are urged to stay informed through official channels and exercise patience while the situation is resolved.
