A31 - Vehicle fire

The A31 in Hampshire is closed in both directions due to a van fire which occurred yesterday afternoon. The fire then spread to nearby heathland, and as such is now a major incident.

The westbound carriageway is closed between the M27 J2 (Ower) and the A338 (Ringwood). 

The eastbound carriageway is closed between the A338 and M27 J1 (Cadnam). 

Hampshire fire crews, supported by colleagues from Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, are currently attending the incident.

A total of 26 fire engines, four water carriers, six off-road vehicles and multiple command vehicles have been in attendance.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service are providing updates on their website here.

National Highways contractors are also in attendance and have advised that there is significant damage to the road surface, road safety barrier and boundary fencing as a result of the fire and a subsequent oil spillage from the burnt out vehicle. All of which will require emergency repairs when safe to do so.

The road is likely to be closed throughout the day, and at this stage there is no estimated time for re-opening.

Diversion Route

Traffic travelling westbound is advised to follow the below diversion route - not symbol led. 

• Exit the M27 at J2 (Ower Interchange) onto the A326 towards Ashurst Bridge.  
• Join the A35 and head southbound on the A35 through Ashurst, Lyndhurst, Allum Green, Hinton Admiral and Christchurch.
• At the Iford roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto the A3060 towards the Cooper Dean roundabout.
• At the Cooper Dean roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto the A338.
• Continue northbound on the A338 to the Ashley Heath roundabout to re-join the A31.  

Traffic travelling eastbound is advised to follow the below diversion route - not symbol led. 

• Exit the A31 at Ashley Heath roundabout onto the A338.
• Continue south on the A338 towards Bournemouth.
• At the Cooper Dean roundabout, take the 1st exit onto the A3060.
• Continue on the A3060 to the Iford roundabout, take the 1st exit onto the A35.
• Continue on the A35 through Christchurch, Hinton Admiral, Allum Green, Lyndhurst and Ashurst until you reach the A326.
• Head northbound on the A326 to re-join the M27 at J2 (Ower Interchange). 

If this closure impacts on your planned route, please allow extra journey time.

Further information is available from National Highways by visiting our travel apps, or via our regional X feed.

Our 24/7 contact centre team is also available to provide up to the minute information on 0300 123 5000.