M25 Traffic: Motorway shut in both directions after lorry crash brings down power cables
M25 Traffic is heavily disrupted after a crash in Essex that brought down power cables and an electricity pole, shutting the motorway in both directions between junction 28 for Brentwood and junction 27 for the M11 and causing long delays.
M25 Traffic: where the closure is and why it matters
The closure affects the M25 between J28 (Brentwood) and J27 (M11). Emergency crews report that power cables and an electricity pole were brought down during a collision involving two lorries. The presence of exposed wires has required immediate attendance by engineers to make the scene safe, and all lanes have been closed in both directions while work continues.
Who is on scene and safety actions taken
Fire crews, police and UK Power Networks engineers are attending the scene. The electricity pole and overhead cables were brought down, leaving 14 properties without power. Crews have cleared the road of cables and repairs are taking place. Drivers have been asked to avoid the area and to remain in their vehicles while responders work to secure the scene.
Traffic impact, delays and diversions
The incident has caused long and significant delays on the motorway. A diversion has been put in place directing traffic toward central London the A13 westbound. Motorists are being asked to plan alternative routes and allow extra time, because the road may be closed for some time.
Local rail disruption and wider transport effects
The closure came amid earlier rail disruption: Gatwick Express services faced disruption after a train struck an obstruction on the line in the Salfords area. The line towards Purley is blocked, meaning trains to, from and through Gatwick Airport may be cancelled, delayed by up to 40 minutes or revised. That disruption was expected to continue until around 12: 00. Separately, the Central Line is experiencing minor delays due to train cancellations.
Incident details, patient care and official statements
The collision occurred on the anti-clockwise carriageway but has necessitated closure in both directions because the power line and cables affect both carriageways. The crash caused extensive barrier damage and required engineers to attend across both sides to make the scene safe. Ambulance responders were called just before 11am. An ambulance and an ambulance officer vehicle attended, and the driver of a lorry involved was assessed and discharged at the scene after receiving treatment.
Advice to drivers and detailed diversion route for anticlockwise traffic
Drivers travelling anticlockwise are advised to leave the motorway at J28 and take the A12 northbound, continuing for about 12 miles toward Chelmsford. At the A12/A414 junction, follow the A414 westbound for roughly 15 miles before joining the M11 southbound at J7. From there, continue on the M11 to rejoin the M25 at J27. Motorists are urged to avoid the area and consider alternative routes; the closure is expected to last for some time and patience has been requested from all road users.
Local emergency contacts and organisational notes
Essex County Fire and Rescue Service crews are on scene and have issued guidance to motorists. National Highways East has confirmed the M25 is closed in both directions between J28 (Brentwood) and J27 (M11). Essex Police are asking motorists to avoid the area and use alternative routes. The emergency service headquarters address provided by the fire service is: Essex County Fire and Rescue Service Headquarters, Kelvedon Park, Rivenhall, Witham, Essex CM8 3HB. Do not report emergencies to the headquarters; to report an emergency please call 999. Requests for a fire report or Freedom of Information requests can be made through the fire service's usual channels.
Do you have a story suggestion for Essex? Readers were invited to submit local news tips and to follow Essex news updates on social platforms. Recent updates stress that the situation remains active and may change as repairs progress.
