M25 Dartford closure after lorry fire causes 12-mile queues
National Highways diverts traffic onto local roads in Barnet and Bexley until at least 19:00 today
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The M25 has been closed in both directions between junctions 2 (Dartford) and 3 (Swanley) after a lorry caught fire at 06:45 this morning. National Highways confirmed the incident, which has created 12-mile queues on approach to the closure.
Traffic has been diverted onto the A2 and surrounding local roads, including routes through Barnet and Bexley. Residents reported increased congestion on the A1000, A111, and A1 during the morning peak.
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
Impact on Barnet residents
National Highways has urged drivers to avoid the area or use public transport where possible. The diversion has added delays to morning commutes, school runs, and bus services in Barnet, particularly along the A1 and A1000 corridors.
Barnet Council has not issued any specific guidance for local roads but has advised residents to check National Highways updates. Transport for London (TfL) confirmed that bus routes 107, 234, and 307 are experiencing delays due to diverted traffic.
M25 Dartford section closed after multi-vehicle crash
National Highways diverts traffic onto local roads in Bexley and Dartford as recovery continues
What happens next
National Highways stated that the closure will remain in place until at least 19:00 today. Fire crews are still at the scene, and structural assessments of the road are underway. No reopening time has been confirmed.
Drivers are advised to follow @HighwaysSEAST on X (formerly Twitter) for real-time updates. Barnet Council has not announced any plans to adjust traffic signals or deploy additional enforcement officers to manage local congestion.
Questions this report answers
+How long will the M25 closure last?
National Highways expects the closure to last until at least 19:00 today. Fire crews are still at the scene, and no reopening time has been confirmed. Drivers should check for updates before travelling.
+Which local roads in Barnet are affected?
Traffic has been diverted onto the A2 and local routes including the A1000, A111, and A1. Residents have reported delays on these roads, particularly during the morning commute.
+What should drivers do if they need to travel?
National Highways advises drivers to avoid the area or use public transport where possible. Bus routes in Barnet are experiencing delays, so passengers should check TfL updates before travelling.
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