A406 crash shuts two lanes near Ilford, queues stretch to Woodford Green

Two lanes of the A406 North Circular were closed this morning after a crash near Charlie Brown’s roundabout in Ilford. The collision, involving two vehicles, occurred at 07:40 on the eastbound carriageway. Transport for London (TfL) confirmed the closure and reported delays of up to 90 minutes for drivers travelling between Ilford and Woodford Green.

Queues stretched 2.4 miles along the North Circular, according to traffic cameras monitored by TfL. The congestion affected commuters heading towards the A12 and A406 junctions, with some drivers diverting onto local roads in Redbridge and Wanstead. No alternative public transport disruptions were reported by TfL or London Buses.

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Emergency response and road reopening

Metropolitan Police officers and London Ambulance Service paramedics attended the scene. A spokesperson for the London Ambulance Service told *This Is Local London* that no injuries had been reported at the time of their arrival. The police confirmed that the road was partially reopened by 09:15, with one lane remaining closed for recovery work.

TfL advised drivers to avoid the area and use alternative routes, including the A12 or A104, to bypass the congestion. No estimated time for full reopening was provided by the police or TfL. The cause of the collision remains under investigation by the Metropolitan Police’s Roads and Transport Policing Command.

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Impact on local residents and businesses

Local businesses near Charlie Brown’s roundabout, including a 24-hour petrol station and a convenience store, reported increased foot traffic as delayed drivers stopped for fuel and refreshments. A manager at the petrol station, who asked not to be named, said: "We’ve had a steady stream of customers since 8 a.m. Most are frustrated and just want to get moving."

Residents in nearby Wanstead and Woodford Green reported increased noise and air pollution from idling vehicles. Redbridge Council has not issued any statements regarding the incident or its impact on local air quality. The council’s traffic management team was not available for comment at the time of publication.

What happens next

The Metropolitan Police will continue their investigation into the cause of the collision. Drivers involved in the incident may be contacted for statements. TfL has not announced any plans for additional signage or diversions in the event of future disruptions on the A406.

Residents and drivers can check TfL’s traffic updates via the *TfL Go* app or the *TfL website* for real-time information on road conditions. No further updates on the reopening of the remaining closed lane have been provided.