M25 Crash Latest Update Today (July 17): Motorists travelling on the M25 clockwise near Junction 31 faced severe disruption on Friday (July 17) after a road traffic collision led to a fuel spillage and emergency resurfacing work. The incident forced authorities to close the entry slip road at the Lakeside interchange, while one lane on the main motorway also remained shut.
The closures triggered miles of congestion and lengthy delays across the M25, A13 and surrounding roads as police and highway teams worked to clear the scene and restore normal traffic conditions.
M25 Crash Latest Update Today (July 17): What Happened?
A crash on the M25 clockwise at Junction 31 prompted an emergency response after the collision resulted in a road spillage requiring immediate resurfacing work.
Highway crews and police attended the scene to secure the area, clear debris and repair the affected section of the motorway. As a safety measure, the entry slip road remained closed while recovery and maintenance operations continued.
M25 Crash Latest Update Today (July 17): Where Did the Crash Happen?
The collision occurred at Junction 31 near Lakeside Shopping Centre, one of the busiest motorway junctions connecting the M25 with the A13.
The clockwise entry slip road to the M25 remains closed, preventing vehicles from joining the motorway at Junction 31. Drivers travelling through Thurrock and nearby areas have experienced significant disruption throughout the day.
M25 Crash Latest Update Today (July 17): Delays and Queue Update
The incident has caused major congestion across the motorway network.
Traffic monitoring services reported:
- Around 45-minute delays on the M25 clockwise.
- Approximately four miles of congestion are approaching Junction 31.
- Delays of up to 30 minutes on the A13 London-bound.
- Traffic is moving at an average speed of around 5 mph on affected stretches of the M25 and A13.
Queues have also extended through Greys, Purfleet, Wennington and Thurrock, affecting both commuters and commercial traffic.
M25 Crash Latest Update Today (July 17): Are Any Lanes Closed?
Yes. Authorities have confirmed several traffic restrictions remain in place.
Current closures include:
- The clockwise entry slip road at Junction 31 is closed.
- Lane one of three on the M25 clockwise remains shut.
- A1306 Arterial Road (London-bound) closed near the incident.
These restrictions will remain until highway engineers complete resurfacing work and confirm the road is safe to reopen.
M25 Crash Latest Update Today (July 17): Alternative Routes and Diversions
Drivers intending to join the M25 at Junction 31 are being advised to continue towards Junction 30, where they can safely access the motorway.
Motorists should also consider checking live navigation services before travelling, as surrounding roads continue to experience heavy traffic due to diversions.
M25 Crash Latest Update Today (July 17): When Will Traffic Return to Normal?
There is currently no confirmed reopening time for the closed slip road.
Traffic conditions are expected to improve only after resurfacing work is completed, damaged sections of the road are repaired, and authorities finish safety inspections.
Drivers should expect delays to continue throughout the recovery operation.
M25 Crash Latest Update Today (July 17): Planned Closures and Maintenance
Emergency resurfacing work remains the priority following the collision and resulting road spillage.
Highway maintenance teams are repairing the damaged carriageway before reopening the affected lane and entry slip road. Officials have not announced any additional planned closures beyond the current emergency works.
M25 Crash Latest Update Today (July 17): Helpline Numbers
Drivers needing assistance or further information can contact:
National Highways Customer Contact Centre:
0300 123 5000
Emergency Services:
999 (for emergencies only)
Non-Emergency Police:
101
Motorists can also check National Highways live traffic updates for information about accidents, road closures, lane restrictions and travel conditions.
M25 Crash Latest Update Today (July 17): What Should Drivers Know?
Authorities are urging motorists to plan extra travel time, follow diversion signs and avoid unnecessary journeys through the affected area where possible.
Drivers should maintain safe distances, obey temporary traffic management measures and avoid stopping near the accident scene. Live traffic updates should be checked before setting out, particularly for those travelling on the M25 clockwise, A13 or surrounding roads near Lakeside.
