The Dartford Crossing is currently closed following a lorry crash that occurred around 11:00 AM on July 3, 2025, causing significant delays for drivers.

The closure affects traffic on the M25 from Junction 31 A1306 (Lakeside / Purfleet) to Junction 1A A206 (Dartford), leading to extensive congestion in the area.

As of Thursday evening, traffic delays are severe, with reports indicating 60 minutes of delay on the M25 clockwise between junctions 29 and 31 and 90 minutes anti-clockwise between junction 4 and junction 1A.

Drivers have expressed frustration, with some stuck in traffic for hours, including one individual who reported being delayed near Lakeside shopping centre since early afternoon.

The crash has resulted in significant damage to the bridge's barriers and a fuel leak from the lorry, necessitating emergency resurfacing of all lanes.

Essex Police, in coordination with National Highways, decided to close the bridge for safety and repairs after one person was reported to have sustained minor injuries.

Emergency services confirmed that a woman was taken to Basildon University Hospital with minor injuries, while the extent of other injuries remains unclear.

Authorities, including police and ambulance services, are on-site managing the situation and conducting an investigation into the incident.

Traffic is being redirected, with all southbound vehicles on the M25/A282 using the east bore tunnel, while northbound traffic must utilize the west bore Dartford tunnel, which has a height restriction.

National Highways has advised drivers to allow extra journey time and consider alternative routes or delaying travel due to the ongoing disruptions.

Normal traffic conditions are not expected to resume until between 9:15 PM and 9:30 PM, with ongoing delays anticipated throughout the afternoon and evening.

National Highways expects to restore normal traffic conditions between 3:15 PM and 3:30 PM, pending the completion of clean-up efforts.