On Friday afternoon, commuters in London experienced significant delays due to a collision on the M25 near Dartford, blocking traffic on the clockwise section between junctions 2 and 3. The incident caused 90-minute delays and eight miles of tailbacks. Emergency services attended the scene, and National Highways issued travel alerts, particularly with additional planned closures in Surrey for bridge construction expected to compound travel disruptions.

The traffic issues were compounded by disruptions in rail services due to an overtime ban by Aslef drivers, affecting Southern, Thameslink, and Great Northern lines, with the Gatwick Express service suspended. Parts of the London Overground and District Tube lines also faced disruptions, though these have since resumed with minor delays. Furthermore, the Croydon network experienced part closures due to tram damage from unidentified debris.

Separately, on the M6 motorway near Stoke-on-Trent, a collision between two lorries early in the morning at around 6.15 AM between junctions 17 and 16 led to lane closures and over four miles of traffic congestion. Although lanes reopened later, residual delays continued to affect traffic flow in the area.

Additional planned disruptions include a closure on the M25 between junctions 9 and 10 for the second consecutive weekend. This closure is part of a larger £317 million improvement project at junction 10, where a new bridge and gantry are being installed. The project aims to enhance safety and traffic flow, including updates to infrastructure for cyclists and pedestrians. A 19-mile diversion route has been set up, and officials have advised drivers to avoid the area unless necessary.

These events have caused widespread impact across London’s transport network, leading to delays and alterations in usual travel routes.