A section of the M23 motorway near Gatwick Airport has been closed for hours following a fatal crash, causing severe delays for morning rush-hour traffic. The collision occurred on the southbound carriageway at junction 9 for Crawley and Gatwick at approximately 1am on Wednesday, July 8.
National Highways confirmed the carriageway is expected to remain closed until at least early afternoon while Sussex Police carry out a crash investigation. Road users heading to London Gatwick Airport, the UK's second busiest airport, are advised to allow plenty of extra time and consider alternative routes.
Rush-hour chaos and diversions
Delays are building up in both directions, with traffic snaking back to junction 10. Diversions are in place, but motorists are strongly encouraged to plan alternative routes. Sussex Police said: 'The southbound carriageway there is likely to be closed all morning following the collision, which happened just before 1am.'
The force has appealed for any eyewitnesses or motorists with dashcam footage to come forward and assist with the investigation.
Impact on Gatwick Airport travel
Passengers travelling to Gatwick Airport are urged to factor in significant delays and seek alternative routes. National Highways stated: 'Due to the serious nature of the incident, Sussex Police investigations remain ongoing and will continue to take place throughout the day.'
The closure is expected to cause disruption well into the afternoon, affecting not only airport traffic but also local commuters on one of the busiest routes in the region.
