M25 crash closes three lanes near Barnet, 90-minute delays for drivers
National Highways confirms the incident between junctions 23 and 24, with queues stretching back to Potters Bar
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A crash on the M25 anticlockwise near Barnet has closed three lanes, causing delays of up to 90 minutes for drivers. The incident occurred between junctions 23 (South Mimms) and 24 (Potters Bar), National Highways confirmed at 14:35 today.
Traffic queues have built up as far back as Potters Bar, affecting commuters and freight vehicles. National Highways is managing the scene, with emergency services and recovery teams in attendance. The cause of the collision remains unclear.
M25 crashes cause delays between Dartford and South Mimms
Two separate collisions on 10 August led to long tailbacks and diversions for drivers
What drivers should do
National Highways has urged drivers to avoid the area if possible. Those already on the road are advised to use real-time traffic apps such as Waze or Google Maps to find alternative routes. Variable message signs on the M25 are displaying delay warnings.
No estimated time has been given for the lanes to reopen. Recovery operations are expected to continue for several hours, with updates promised as the situation develops. The incident is being monitored by National Highways’ regional control centre in Godstone.
M25 crash closes lane near Romford as traffic slows
One lane shut on the clockwise carriageway between junctions 28 and 29 after a collision this morning
Impact on local routes
Local roads around Potters Bar and South Mimms are likely to see increased traffic as drivers seek diversions. Residents in the area have reported congestion on the A1000 and A111, which are common alternative routes. Barnet Council has not issued any specific guidance for local roads.
The M25 is a critical route for commuters travelling between Hertfordshire, Essex and London. Today’s incident adds to ongoing disruption caused by roadworks and previous collisions this month. National Highways data shows average delays of 45 minutes on this stretch during peak hours.
What happens next
National Highways will continue to provide updates via its traffic England website and social media channels. Drivers are advised to check before travelling, as delays may persist into the evening. No information has been released about injuries or the number of vehicles involved.
Questions this report answers
+How long are the delays on the M25?
Delays of up to 90 minutes are affecting drivers on the M25 anticlockwise between junctions 23 and 24, National Highways said. Queues have built up as far back as Potters Bar, with no immediate sign of improvement.
+Which lanes are closed on the M25?
Three lanes of the M25 anticlockwise are closed near Barnet after a crash. The closure is between junctions 23 (South Mimms) and 24 (Potters Bar), causing significant disruption to traffic.
+What should drivers do if they are already on the M25?
Drivers already on the M25 are advised to use real-time traffic apps to find alternative routes. National Highways has urged people to avoid the area if possible, as recovery operations may take several hours.
+When will the M25 reopen?
No reopening time has been confirmed for the closed lanes on the M25. National Highways is managing the scene, and updates will be provided as the situation develops. Delays are expected to continue into the evening.
WE FILE
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The London Travel Desk assembled this report from the outlets listed below. Language-model drafting is reviewed under human editorial supervision, with scoring notes and corrections kept visible.
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