What Happened at Gatwick Airport That Closed the M23?

Long delays are currently affecting traffic on the M23 near Gatwick Airport, caused by a serious police incident that has led to the closure of the southbound carriageway. Drivers are experiencing hour-long delays as they attempt to navigate the area, with significant congestion reported between junctions 8 (M25) and 9 (Gatwick Airport).

Last updated: 16 October 2023 (BST)

Current Situation on the M23

The M23 is experiencing severe delays following a police-led incident. According to traffic data analyst Inrix, the situation has escalated to a 'serious police incident,' affecting motorists trying to access Gatwick Airport, the UK's second-busiest airport.

Surrey Police are currently on the scene, and the M23 remains closed southbound between junction 8 (Redhill) and junction 9 (Gatwick Airport). Although traffic on the northbound carriageway has been released, drivers are still facing approximately 60 minutes of delays.

Key Takeaways

• The M23 is closed southbound between junctions 8 and 9.
• Drivers are facing delays of up to 60 minutes.
• Surrey Police are managing the incident on site.
• Congestion is also affecting the M25 and other routes into London due to ongoing Tube strikes.

Impact on Travel to Gatwick Airport

With the M23 closed, passengers travelling to Gatwick Airport may face significant challenges. Those using the M25 to access the airport should be prepared for increased travel times and potential diversions. The closure could impact flights, with delays for both arrivals and departures likely. It is advisable for travellers to check their flight status and allow extra time to reach the airport.

Police Response and Investigation

Surrey Police have confirmed their presence at the scene of the incident. While the details of the police-led operation remain unclear, the closure of a major motorway indicates the seriousness of the situation. Authorities are working quickly to resolve the issue, but the ongoing nature of the incident suggests that delays may persist for some time.

Advice for Motorists

Motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible. Those who must travel should consider alternative routes and be prepared for potential congestion on surrounding roads. Here are some tips for navigating this situation:

• Check traffic updates regularly through reliable sources.
• Use navigation apps that provide real-time traffic conditions.
• Plan for additional travel time, especially if heading to Gatwick Airport.

Wider Traffic Disruptions

The M23 incident is compounded by other traffic issues in the region. The M25 and roads leading into central London are notably busy today, in part due to ongoing Tube strikes affecting all lines. Commuters will find their usual travel options limited, contributing to heavier traffic on roads.

What to Expect Next

As the police incident unfolds, updates will be provided by Surrey Police and traffic management authorities. Motorists should stay informed about the situation and be prepared for possible changes in traffic patterns. The current closure on the M23 is expected to remain in place until the incident is fully resolved.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the M23 closure near Gatwick Airport is causing significant delays for drivers due to a serious police incident. With the surrounding roads also busy from additional traffic, it’s crucial for motorists to stay updated and plan their journeys accordingly. If you are travelling today, especially to Gatwick, ensure that you allow extra time for your journey.

Stay safe, and keep an eye on traffic updates as the situation develops. #M23Traffic #GatwickAirport #TravelUpdates

FAQs

What is causing the delays on the M23?

The delays on the M23 are due to a serious police incident that has led to the closure of the southbound carriageway.

How long are the delays on the M23 expected to last?

Current estimates indicate that delays could last for approximately 60 minutes, but this may change as the incident unfolds.

Are there alternative routes to Gatwick Airport?

Motorists are advised to use alternative routes such as the M25 or local roads, but should be prepared for potential congestion on those routes as well.

Is public transport affected by the M23 closure?

While the M23 closure specifically impacts road traffic, ongoing Tube strikes have also resulted in increased congestion on roads leading into London, affecting overall travel conditions.

How can I get updates on the M23 situation?

Drivers can get updates through traffic data services like Inrix, as well as local news outlets and traffic management authorities for the latest information.