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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
National
Nuray Bulbul,Matt Watts and Tom Place

London travel news LIVE: M25 chaos as motorway shut in both directions after lorry crash takes out power lines

Drivers on the M25 are facing long delays as all lanes have been closed in both directions.

The crash, which occurred anti-clockwise, has taken out a power line and requires immediate attendance by engineers across both carriageways to make safe.

The collision involving two lorries has led to the closure of the motorway in both directions between J28 (Brentwood) and J27 (M11).

It comes after Gatwick Express services were facing disruption this morning after a train struck an obstruction on the line in the Salfords area.

The line towards Purley is currently blocked, meaning trains to, from and through Gatwick Airport may be cancelled, delayed by up to 40 minutes or revised. Disruption was expected to continue until around 12:00.

Follow for the latest updates...

Coverage ends

Tuesday 24 February 2026 19:33 , Matt Watts

We are now ending our coverage.

Two lanes still closed anticlockwise

Tuesday 24 February 2026 19:32 , Matt Watts

Two lanes remain closed on the M25 anticlockwise between junctions J28 and J27, according to National Highways.

There are currently delays of 10 minutes against expected traffic, it said.

Meanwhile the clockwise carriageway is open, according to National Highways.

Essex Police statement

Tuesday 24 February 2026 17:46 , Tom Place

Essex Police have released a statement regarding the crash earlier today.

A spokesperson for Essex Police said: "We continue to deal with an incident involving a lorry on M25.

"It was reported that a lorry had left the road between junctions 28 and 27 (anticlockwise) following a tyre blowout shortly before 11am today, Tuesday 24 February.

"The lorry collided with the reservation, and a power cable was damaged: it has now been made safe by the power network.

"A second lorry has been damaged resulting in a damaged windscreen. No one was reported to be seriously injured in this collision.

"The road was closed in both directions whilst emergency services including Essex County Fire and Rescue Service and National Highways responded.

"Track A (clockwise) is now reopened.

"Lane closures remain on track B (anticlockwise) although lanes 3 and 4 are now opened.

"We’d like to thank all our partners who have helped throughout the incident and the public for their patience and understanding.

"The road closure will remain in place for several hours yet and will be managed by Highways England.

"Please check before setting off on your journey."

M25 partly reopens - still with major delays

Tuesday 24 February 2026 16:24 , Tom Place

The M25 has reopened between Brentwood at junction 28 and the M11 at junction 28, following the earlier crash.

Two of four lanes on the anticlockwise carriage remain closed while safety inspections take place.

Lorry driver treated at scene after M25 crash

Tuesday 24 February 2026 15:53 , Nuray Bulbul

The driver of a lorry involved in the M25 crash received treatment at the scene, a spokesperson for the East of England Ambulance service confirmed.

The spokesperson said: "We were called just before 11am to reports of a road traffic collision on the M25 between junctions 28 and 27, involving a lorry.

"We sent an ambulance and an ambulance officer vehicle. The driver of the lorry was assessed and discharged at the scene."

Essex Police issue statement

Tuesday 24 February 2026 15:38 , Nuray Bulbul

Essex Police have issued a statement following a lorry crash that has led to the closure of the M25.

A spokesperson said: “An incident involving a lorry has forced the closure of a section of the M25 in Essex while emergency services respond.

“The motorway is shut in both directions just west of the A12 junction. The closure is expected to last for some time, so please plan alternative routes and avoid the area. We thank everyone for their patience and cooperation.”

Central line reporting minor delays

Tuesday 24 February 2026 15:23 , Nuray Bulbul

Elsewhere, the Central Line is experiencing minor delays due to train cancellations.

M25 traffic update: delays on both directions

Tuesday 24 February 2026 15:10 , Nuray Bulbul

Motorists are facing significant delays on the M25.

  • Clockwise (J26 to J27): Severe congestion is causing delays of around 30 minutes. Normal traffic is expected to resume between 15:00 and 15:15.
  • Anticlockwise (J29 to J28): Traffic is heavily affected with delays of up to 1 hour. Drivers can expect conditions to return to normal between 15:00 and 15:15.

Travellers are advised to allow extra time or consider alternative routes.

Barrier damage and downed power line

Tuesday 24 February 2026 14:59 , Nuray Bulbul

The M25 lorry crash has caused extensive barrier damage, and a power line has been brought down at the scene.

Diversion routes

Tuesday 24 February 2026 14:47 , Nuray Bulbul

Drivers travelling anticlockwise on the M25 are advised to leave the motorway at J28 and take the A12 northbound, continuing for about 12 miles toward Chelmsford.

At the A12/A414 junction, follow the A414 westbound for roughly 15 miles before joining the M11 southbound at J7. From there, continue on the M11 to rejoin the M25 at J27.

Motorists heading clockwise should follow the same diversion route in the opposite direction.

M25 still closed both ways

Tuesday 24 February 2026 14:33 , Nuray Bulbul

The M25 is currently shut in both directions between J28 (Brentwood) and J27 (M11).

Fire officials have warned that the closure could remain in place for an extended period.

14 homes without electricity in Brentwood

Tuesday 24 February 2026 14:20 , Nuray Bulbul

A lorry crash on the M25 has caused a power cut in Brentwood, leaving 14 homes without electricity.

The incident on the anticlockwise carriageway brought down an electricity pole and overhead cables.

UK Power Networks confirmed that engineers are on site and have cleared the fallen cables from the road.

“Our engineers were on site by 11.25am and the road is now clear of the cables. Repair work continues and power will be restored to the 14 nearby properties affected, as quickly as is safely possible.”

UK Power Networks notes on its website that power could remain off until around 4:30pm, though this may be revised depending on the investigation and the work needed to fully resolve the issue.

M25 clockwise delays: 30 minutes

Tuesday 24 February 2026 14:09 , Nuray Bulbul

Delays are currently around 30 minutes on the M25 clockwise between junctions 26 and 27.

Motorists are advised to allow extra time for their journeys or consider alternative routes.

The M25 clockwise entry slip at junction J27 from M11 North is also reporting congestion with two lanes closed.

Fire crews at the scene

Tuesday 24 February 2026 13:54 , Nuray Bulbul

Emergency services are responding to a crash on the M25.

A spokesperson for Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said: “Our crews are currently on scene following a collision between two lorries.

“Drivers are asked to remain in their vehicles while we deal with the incident.

“We thank all motorists for their patience while we work with our colleagues Essex Police and National Highways as we continue to work to make the scene safe.”

No information released on when motorway will reopen

Tuesday 24 February 2026 13:42 , Matt Watts

In its latest update National Highways has not released any information on when the M25 will reopen.

We’ll let you know as soon as we have any details.

M25 remains closed in both directions

Tuesday 24 February 2026 13:34 , Matt Watts

National Highways have given an update on the M25 closure, and says all lines remain closed as engineers make power cables safe following a lorry crash.

Pictures show lorry involved in crash

Tuesday 24 February 2026 13:21 , Matt Watts

Essex Fire and Rescue Service has said its crews are currently on scene following the crash which has closed the M25.

During the collision, power cables were brought down, it said.

Drivers are asked to remain in their vehicles while it deals with the incident.

A statement on its Facebook page said: “Essex Police are also asking motorists to avoid the area and use alternative routes - the road may be closed for some time.

“We thank all motorists for their patience while we work with our colleagues Essex Police and National Highways as we continue to work to make the scene safe.”

It released images of a lorry that appears to have gone through a barrier at the edge of the motorway.

(Essex Fire and Rescue Service)
(Essex County Fire and Rescue Service)

M25 shut in both directions

Tuesday 24 February 2026 13:13 , Matt Watts

Drivers on the M25 are facing long delays as all lanes have been closed in both directions.

The crash, which occurred anti-clockwise, has taken out a power line and requires immediate attendance by engineers across both carriageways to make safe.

The collision involving two lorries has led to the closure of the motorway in both directions between J28 (Brentwood) and J27 (M11).

Elizabeth line resumes good service

Tuesday 24 February 2026 10:17 , Nuray Bulbul

The Elizabeth line is currently providing a good service.

Circle line resumes good service

Tuesday 24 February 2026 10:06 , Nuray Bulbul

The Circle line is currently providing a good service.

Metropolitan line reporting severe delays

Tuesday 24 February 2026 09:53 , Nuray Bulbul

Severe delays due to an earlier signal failure at Harrow-on-the-Hill.

London Buses, Lioness line, Chiltern Railways and Thameslink services are accepting tickets via any reasonable route.

Minor delays on the Elizabeth line

Tuesday 24 February 2026 09:41 , Nuray Bulbul

There are minor delays between Hayes & Harlington and Reading while TfL fix a faulty train at Maidenhead.

There is a good service on the rest of the line.

Gatwick Airport disruption expected until 12pm

Tuesday 24 February 2026 09:30 , Nuray Bulbul

The disruption has now been extended until 12pm.

Hammersmith and City line update

Tuesday 24 February 2026 09:16 , Nuray Bulbul

Minor delays due to an earlier faulty train on the Hammersmith and City line.

IFS Cloud Cable Car providing a good service

Tuesday 24 February 2026 09:05 , Nuray Bulbul

The IFS Cloud Cable Car is currently providing a good service.

No tram service between East Croydon and Beckenham Junction, Elmers End and New Addington

Tuesday 24 February 2026 08:54 , Nuray Bulbul

Until Wednesday February 25, there is no tram service between East Croydon and Beckenham Junction, Elmers End or New Addington.

Replacement buses are running, but they will not serve Lebanon Road. Passengers are advised to allow extra time for their journeys.

Piccadilly line hit by severe delays across multiple branches

Tuesday 24 February 2026 08:40 , Nuray Bulbul

There are severe delays between Acton Town and Uxbridge / Heathrow Terminals, and also between Arnos Grove and Cockfosters, due to train cancellations.

The rest of the Piccadilly line is experiencing minor delays.

Tickets are being accepted on London Buses and the Elizabeth line via any reasonable route. Passengers are advised to allow extra time for their journeys.

Severe delays on the Metropolitan line

Tuesday 24 February 2026 08:27 , Nuray Bulbul

Severe delays due to an earlier signal failure at Harrow-on-the-Hill.

London Buses, Lioness line, Chiltern Railways and Thameslink services are accepting tickets via any reasonable route.

Severe delays on the Circle line

Tuesday 24 February 2026 08:18 , Nuray Bulbul

Severe delays while TfL fix a faulty train.

Severe delays on Hammersmith & City line due to faulty train

Tuesday 24 February 2026 08:06 , Nuray Bulbul

There are severe delays on the Hammersmith & City line while engineers work to fix a faulty train.

Passengers are advised to allow extra time for their journeys and check before travelling.

No serious disruption reported on London’s roads

Tuesday 24 February 2026 07:54 , Nuray Bulbul

There are currently no reports of any major incidents or serious disruption across London’s road network.

While minor congestion may build in usual hotspots during peak periods, traffic is generally flowing well across the capital. Drivers are advised to check routes before travelling in case conditions change.

Minor delays on the Bakerloo line

Tuesday 24 February 2026 07:41 , Nuray Bulbul

There are minor delays due to train cancellations.

Minor delays on the Central line

Tuesday 24 February 2026 07:30 , Nuray Bulbul

There are minor delays due to train cancellations.

Gatwick Express tickets accepted on alternative routes amid disruption

Tuesday 24 February 2026 07:19 , Nuray Bulbul

Passengers can use their Gatwick Express tickets at no extra cost on Southern or Thameslink services via any reasonable route between Gatwick Airport and East Croydon.

Tickets are also being accepted on Metrobus services between Gatwick Airport and Redhill, including:

  • 100: Gatwick Airport – Horley – Salfords – Earlswood – Redhill
  • 400: Gatwick Airport – Horley – Salfords – Earlswood – Redhill (hourly)
  • 420: Gatwick Airport – Salfords – Earlswood – Redhill (hourly)
  • 460: Gatwick Airport – Horley – Salfords – Earlswood – Redhill (hourly)

Passengers should note that journeys involving replacement road transport may take up to 30 minutes longer than usual.

No service between Harrow-on-the-Hill and Rayners Lane after signal failure

Tuesday 24 February 2026 07:06 , Nuray Bulbul

There is currently no service between Harrow-on-the-Hill and Rayners Lane, with severe delays on the rest of the line, as engineers work to fix a signal failure at Harrow-on-the-Hill.

Tickets are being accepted on London Buses, the Lioness line, Chiltern Railways and Thameslink services via any reasonable route. Passengers are advised to allow extra time for their journeys.

Welcome back to our London travel news live blog

Tuesday 24 February 2026 06:58 , Nuray Bulbul

We’re continuing to bring you the latest updates on Tube, rail and road disruption across the capital.

Stay with us for real-time developments and commuter advice.

Northern line disruption: No service between Edgware and Golders Green

Monday 23 February 2026 15:42 , Nuray Bulbul

There is no service on the Northern Line between Edgware and Golders Green while a points failure at Colindale is being fixed.

Passengers can expect minor delays between Golders Green and Camden Town, with good service running on the rest of the line.

Lines reopen after incident between Hove and Angmering, delays expected until 17:00

Monday 23 February 2026 15:32 , Nuray Bulbul

All lines between Hove and Angmering have reopened following an earlier incident attended by emergency services.

Services between Brighton and Bognor Regis, Chichester, Portsmouth & Southsea, Southampton Central, and between London Victoria and Littlehampton may still be delayed by up to 40 minutes, cancelled, or revised while services recover.

Disruption is expected to continue until around 17:00.

Late-night Victoria to Hastings service amended due to engineering works

Monday 23 February 2026 15:19 , Nuray Bulbul

Engineering work between Bexhill and Hastings is affecting late services this week.

On Monday 23, Tuesday 24, and Thursday 26 February, the 22:46 London Victoria to Hastings train will terminate at Bexhill.

A rail replacement bus will run from Bexhill to Hastings, departing at 00:54.

Passengers are advised to check before travelling and can plan their journeys using the National Rail Enquiries Journey Planner.

A40 Westway eastbound closed for joint replacement works

Monday 23 February 2026 15:05 , Nuray Bulbul

The eastbound A40 Westway between Westway Roundabout and Marylebone Flyover is closed for joint replacement works.

Traffic is flowing well on diversion routes, but drivers are advised to use an alternative route where possible.

London Waterloo disruption set to last all day

Monday 23 February 2026 14:56 , Nuray Bulbul

The disruption at London Waterloo is expected to last all day.

King’s Cross services delayed up to 40 minutes after trespass incident

Monday 23 February 2026 14:41 , Nuray Bulbul

All lines between Edinburgh and Berwick-upon-Tweed have now reopened following a trespass incident earlier today.

However, disruption is ongoing and trains to and from London King’s Cross may still be delayed by up to 40 minutes or revised while services recover.

Operators affected include LNER, Lumo, CrossCountry and TransPennine Express. Disruption is expected to continue until around 16:00.

Piccadilly line update

Monday 23 February 2026 14:26 , Nuray Bulbul

Minor delays continue on the Piccadilly line due to train cancellations.

Delays on A13 clears up

Monday 23 February 2026 14:06 , Nuray Bulbul

There are no major delays on the A13.

London Waterloo disruption expected until 7pm

Monday 23 February 2026 13:46 , Nuray Bulbul

A speed restriction over a defective track between Clapham Junction and Vauxhall is blocking some lines towards London Waterloo.

As a result, trains to and from Waterloo may be delayed by up to 30 minutes, revised or diverted.

Disruption is expected to continue until 19:00, with passengers advised to allow extra time for their journeys.

IFS Cloud Cable Car providing a good service

Monday 23 February 2026 13:26 , Nuray Bulbul

The IFS Cloud Cable Car is providing a good service.

Drivers warned of delays as Gallows Corner Flyover fully closed

Monday 23 February 2026 13:10 , Nuray Bulbul

Motorists are being urged to use alternative routes as the Gallows Corner Flyover refurbishment continues, with the flyover and roundabout — including all approaches — fully closed at the A12 Eastern Avenue East / Colchester Road junction.

There are average delays of 3–4 minutes on Ardleigh Green Road, Gubbins Lane, Gooshays Drive, North Street and the Southend Arterial Road.

Late-night engineering works disrupt Victoria services to East Grinstead and Oxted

Monday 23 February 2026 12:55 , Nuray Bulbul

Engineering work between East Croydon and Oxted / East Grinstead is closing some lines tonight, affecting late services from London Victoria.

The 23:22 London Victoria to East Grinstead service will not run. Passengers can use the 23:25 London Victoria to Brighton service instead to travel between London Victoria and East Croydon.

The 23:53 London Victoria to Oxted service will terminate at East Croydon.

Rail replacement buses will operate between East Croydon and Oxted / East Grinstead.

Piccadilly line update

Monday 23 February 2026 12:42 , Nuray Bulbul

The Piccadilly line is reporting minor delays due to train cancellations.

Disruption to and from London Waterloo expected until 3pm

Monday 23 February 2026 12:30 , Nuray Bulbul

The London Waterloo disruption is now expected until 3pm.

Northern line resumes good service

Monday 23 February 2026 12:11 , Nuray Bulbul

The Northern line is currently providing a good service.

No trams between East Croydon and Beckenham Junction, Elmers End and New Addington

Monday 23 February 2026 11:58 , Nuray Bulbul

There is no tram service between East Croydon and Beckenham Junction, Elmers End or New Addington until Wednesday, February 25.

Replacement buses are running, but they will not serve Lebanon Road. Passengers are advised to allow extra time for their journeys.

Speed restrictions at Wimbledon causing delays on South Western Railway

Monday 23 February 2026 11:44 , Nuray Bulbul

A defective track at Wimbledon is causing reduced speeds on lines towards Clapham Junction, affecting South Western Railway services between London Waterloo and destinations including Shepperton, Guildford, Woking, Hampton Court, Chessington South, Dorking, and beyond.

Trains may be delayed by up to 15 minutes or revised, with disruption expected until around 12:00. Circular services to and from London Waterloo are also affected.

Passengers are advised to speak to station staff or use help points for assistance. If you’d prefer to continue your journey by bus, check Traveline for local routes, noting that SWR tickets are generally not valid on local buses unless specified.

Bakerloo line resumes good service

Monday 23 February 2026 11:20 , Nuray Bulbul

The Bakerloo line is now providing a good service.

Gallows Corner Flyover refurbishment causing delays and closures

Monday 23 February 2026 11:06 , Nuray Bulbul

Drivers and bus passengers are advised to use alternative routes due to ongoing TfL works on the Gallows Corner Flyover. The flyover and surrounding roundabout, including all approaches, are fully closed while refurbishment takes place.

Traffic delays of around 3–4 minutes are being reported on Ardleigh Green Road, Gubbins Lane, Gooshays Drive, North Street, and the Southend Arterial Road. Additional congestion is expected on the westbound A13 and M11 southbound during peak periods as drivers seek alternative routes.

Minor delays on the Northern line

Monday 23 February 2026 10:43 , Nuray Bulbul

Minor delays due to an earlier fire alert at Colliers Wood.

A good service on the Woolwich Ferry

Monday 23 February 2026 10:33 , Nuray Bulbul

The Woolwich Ferry is currently providing a good service.

Northern line update

Monday 23 February 2026 10:21 , Nuray Bulbul

Severe delays between Morden and Camden Town via Bank northbound only due to an earlier fire alert at Colliers Wood.

Tickets are being accepted on London Buses.

There is a good service on the rest of the line.

Metropolitan line resumes good service

Monday 23 February 2026 10:07 , Nuray Bulbul

The Metropolitan line is now providing a good service.

Traffic slow on A312 Uxbridge Road due to emergency works

Monday 23 February 2026 09:55 , Nuray Bulbul

Traffic is moving slowly on approach to the A312 Uxbridge Road in both directions at the junction with Woodlawn Drive.

Temporary signals are in place while emergency Thames Water utility works are carried out. Drivers are advised to allow extra time for their journeys.

Vehicle collision causing southbound delays on A41 Watford Way

Monday 23 February 2026 09:40 , Nuray Bulbul

Drivers are being advised to approach with caution as traffic is slow on approach, with queues building back to Greyhound Hill.

Lanes two and three (of three) are closed on the southbound A41 between The Burroughs (A504) and the A5150 due to a collision.

Motorists should expect delays and allow extra time for their journeys.

Lines reopen after Three Bridges points failure, delays continue

Monday 23 February 2026 09:23 , Nuray Bulbul

Train services have now resumed following a points failure at Three Bridges.

While services recover, trains between Horsham, Haywards Heath, and Gatwick Airport may still be delayed by up to 30 minutes or subject to revisions. Disruption is expected until around 10:00.

Passengers are advised to allow at least an extra 30 minutes for their journeys and be aware that some trains may still be cancelled or altered at short notice as services return to normal.

Piccadilly line update

Monday 23 February 2026 09:10 , Nuray Bulbul

Severe delays between Acton Town and Uxbridge, and minor delays on the rest of the line due to train cancellations.

Minor delays continue on the Metropolitan line

Monday 23 February 2026 08:53 , Nuray Bulbul

The Metropolitan line is continuing to face minor delays.

Delays around Barking Roundabout due to gas works

Monday 23 February 2026 08:41 , Nuray Bulbul

Drivers are facing westbound delays through Barking back onto Longbridge Road, with queues also building on the southbound exit slip from the A406.

There are further northbound delays on Abbey Road stretching back towards Barking Wharf Square.

Lane closures are in place on slip roads approaching and around Barking Roundabout to facilitate Cadent Gas works, with temporary traffic signals also operating. Motorists are advised to expect delays.

Severe delays on the Bakerloo line

Monday 23 February 2026 08:29 , Nuray Bulbul

Severe delays while TfL deal with an operational incident at Waterloo.

Tickets are being accepted on London Buses, Lioness line and Thameslink services.

Northern line part suspended

Monday 23 February 2026 08:19 , Nuray Bulbul

No service between Tooting Broadway and Morden southbound only while TfL respond to a fire alert at Colliers Wood.

There is a good service on the rest of the line.

Piccadilly line update

Monday 23 February 2026 08:11 , Nuray Bulbul

There are severe delays between Acton Town and Uxbridge due to train cancellations, with minor delays affecting the rest of the line.

Passengers are advised to allow extra time for their journeys.

Traffic slow on A312 Uxbridge Road due to emergency works

Monday 23 February 2026 08:00 , Nuray Bulbul

Traffic is slow on approach to the A312 Uxbridge Road in both directions at the junction with Woodlawn Drive.

Temporary traffic signals are in place for emergency Thames Water utility works. Drivers are advised to allow extra time for their journeys.

Minor delays on the Metropolitan line

Monday 23 February 2026 07:48 , Nuray Bulbul

Minor delays while TfL deal with an operational incident in the depot.

Minor delays on the Piccadilly line

Monday 23 February 2026 07:38 , Nuray Bulbul

Minor delays due to train cancellations.

Reduced service between Reading and London Paddington expected until 9am

Monday 23 February 2026 07:27 , Nuray Bulbul

All lines have now reopened following overrunning engineering works between Twyford and Maidenhead.

However, while services recover, trains between Reading and London Paddington on the Elizabeth line and Great Western Railway may still be delayed or revised until around 9am.

Passengers are advised to check before travelling.

Minor delays on the Bakerloo line

Monday 23 February 2026 07:17 , Nuray Bulbul

There are minor delays due to train cancellations.

Lewisham signalling fault causing delays

Monday 23 February 2026 07:07 , Nuray Bulbul

A signalling fault at Lewisham is disrupting trains this morning, with cancellations and delays expected until 9am.

Services from Hither Green towards central London can’t use platform 1, meaning trains from Sidcup and Sevenoaks are unable to stop at Lewisham.

Tickets are being accepted on London Buses between Hither Green and London Bridge.

Good morning and welcome back to our live London travel blog

Monday 23 February 2026 06:58 , Nuray Bulbul

We’ll be bringing you the latest updates on Tube, rail, bus and river services across the capital, including delays, disruptions and major incidents affecting your commute.

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