A lorry struck a bridge on the M25 early Monday, forcing closure of the clockwise carriageway between Junction 3 (Swanley) and Junction 4 (Orpington) and causing heavy delays for motorists during the morning commute.
Kent Police and Highways officers were called to the scene at about 4:46 a.m., and National Highways traffic cameras and officers reported severe congestion with queues building back to Junction 2 (Darenth Interchange). At least one entry slip at Junction 3 for the clockwise carriageway was closed as recovery work began and traffic officers managed diversions.
A National Highways spokesperson initially said the carriageway could be cleared and reopened between 8 a.m. and 8:15 a.m., but later cautioned that the nature of the recovery operation meant no firm reopening time could be given while specialist engineers inspected the bridge and recovery crews removed the vehicle. The agency said systems were showing delays of up to 45 minutes on approach, and around three miles of congestion back to Junction 2 for traffic on the A2.
Drivers were advised to follow the hollow-triangle diversion signs around the affected area. The signed route directs vehicles to leave the M25 at Junction 3, follow the A20 towards London, continue to the A224, then rejoin the M25 at Junction 4. National Highways urged drivers to allow extra journey time and said its 24/7 contact centre could provide up-to-the-minute information on 0300 123 5000.
Kent Police said patrols attended alongside highway officers and that the carriageway had been closed at Junction 3 to allow recovery of the vehicle. Emergency services remained at the scene while specialist engineers were dispatched to inspect any structural damage to the bridge before the motorway could fully reopen.
It was not immediately known whether anyone was injured in the incident, and ambulance services were approached for comment. Recovery and inspection work of this type can extend closures while safety checks and clearances are completed.
The M25 is a key orbital motorway around London and is prone to significant disruption when incidents occur during peak travel times. Drivers travelling in the area were advised to expect delays and consider alternative routes while the clearance and structural assessment continue.