Motorists are facing severe disruption and miles of stationary traffic after a serious incident forced the third full closure in the M25's history. The unprecedented shutdown on the clockwise carriageway between Junctions 10 and 11 is causing chaos for thousands of evening commuters and long-distance travellers.
The closure was enacted after a significant collision damaged safety barriers, requiring emergency repairs by National Highways crews. The critical work is expected to continue through the night, with no firm timeframe for reopening the UK's busiest orbital motorway.
Traffic Standstill and Growing Delays
Live traffic cameras show a five-mile queue building rapidly on the approach to the closure zone. Drivers are being urged to avoid the area entirely as congestion spills onto surrounding A-roads throughout Surrey. The anticlockwise carriageway remains open but is experiencing significant slowdowns due to rubbernecking.
Official Diversion Route in Place
National Highways has implemented a signed diversion route, but warns it is not suitable for large goods vehicles (HGVs). The official detour instructs drivers to:
- Exit the M25 at Junction 10 (A3 Wisley Interchange)
- Take the A3 northbound towards London
- Continue onto the A245 towards Byfleet and New Haw
- Take the A320 towards Woking
- Re-join the M25 at Junction 11
HGV drivers are advised to follow their sat-navs for alternative routes, adding to the complexity of the traffic management operation.
Emergency Services and Investigation
Surrey Police and emergency services responded to the initial incident, which involved a vehicle fire. While the details of any injuries are not yet fully confirmed, the damage to infrastructure was deemed severe enough to warrant the extreme measure of a full carriageway closure.
A National Highways spokesperson stated: "This is not a decision we take lightly. The safety of the travelling public is our utmost priority, and these urgent repairs are essential to ensure the road can be safely reopened."
Drivers are being advised to check live traffic updates from National Highways and allow substantial extra time for any essential journeys in the region tonight.
