Westhorne Avenue in Sidcup closed after serious crash
Police confirm one lane remains shut while collision investigation continues
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Westhorne Avenue, the main road linking Sidcup to Eltham, was closed in both directions this morning after a serious collision. The Metropolitan Police confirmed the incident occurred shortly after 7:30 a.m. on 12 September 2024 near the junction with Footscray Road.
A police spokesperson told This Is Local London that officers were called to reports of a multi-vehicle crash. No injuries have been reported, but the road will remain closed while recovery and forensic teams examine the scene. One lane has been reopened for emergency access, but all other traffic is being diverted.
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Delays expected until mid-afternoon
Transport for London (TfL) has warned drivers to expect significant delays. Diversion signs direct traffic onto the A20 Sidcup Bypass or the A223 Cray Road. Local bus routes, including the 233 and 321, are experiencing delays of up to 40 minutes, with some services being rerouted.
A TfL traffic update stated: "Westhorne Avenue is closed between Footscray Road and Crittall’s Corner. Drivers should allow extra time for journeys and consider alternative routes." The closure affects commuters travelling between Sidcup, New Eltham, and Bexleyheath.
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What happens next
The Metropolitan Police have not given a specific time for reopening the road. A spokesperson said: "The investigation is ongoing, and we will provide updates when available." Recovery teams are expected to remain on site for several hours, with the road unlikely to reopen before 2:00 p.m.
Residents and drivers can check TfL’s traffic news page or follow @TfLTrafficNews on X for live updates. Local councillors for Sidcup and New Eltham have not yet commented on the incident.
Questions this report answers
+How long will Westhorne Avenue stay closed?
The Metropolitan Police have not set a reopening time. Recovery and forensic work is expected to continue until at least mid-afternoon on 12 September 2024, with delays likely until then.
+Which bus routes are affected by the closure?
Routes 233 and 321 are experiencing delays of up to 40 minutes. Some services are being rerouted, so passengers should check TfL updates before travelling.
+What are the alternative routes for drivers?
Transport for London advises using the A20 Sidcup Bypass or the A223 Cray Road as alternatives. Diversion signs are in place, but drivers should allow extra time for journeys.
+Has anyone been injured in the crash?
The Metropolitan Police have not confirmed any injuries. The crash involved multiple vehicles, but no details on casualties have been released as of 12 September 2024.
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