TWO LORRY FIRES CLOSE SECTIONS OF M25 ANTICLOCKWISE

Two separate lorry fires have forced the closure of sections of the M25 anticlockwise on Thursday morning. National Highways closed the motorway between junction 27 and junction 26 following a fire that started around 3am. A second vehicle fire shut the motorway in the same direction between junction 28 and junction 27. Emergency services attended both incidents, with Essex County Fire and Rescue Service leading the response supported by National Highways traffic officers.

Bright orange flames and substantial smoke could be seen from the lorry fire between junctions 27 and 26. Specialist recovery teams worked to remove the heavy goods vehicle and its contents from the scene. National Highways reported 72-minute delays on approach to the affected junctions, with five miles of congestion building on the approaches. The standard diversion route at Gallows Corner remained unavailable due to ongoing long-term roadworks in the area.

Drivers travelling anticlockwise between junctions 28 and 26 were directed via an alternative route using the A12 eastbound, A414, M11 and A406, eventually rejoining the M25 at junction 25 via the A10 northbound. Essex Police attended the scene alongside National Highways management to assist in traffic management. The incidents occurred during the early morning period ahead of the typical morning commute.