A282 - Emergency roadworks operation

The west (left) tunnel of the Dartford Tunnel is closed between J1a (Littlebrook Interchange at Dartford) and J31 (Purfleet-on-Thames/West Thurrock).

A lorry that was over the permissible height entered the left tunnel and in doing so has struck several pieces of equipment resulting in damage.

The equipment is essential to the safe operation of the tunnel and therefore traffic cannot flow through it until repairs are carried out.

National Highways has contractors on site who have advised that the tunnel will remain closed for the remainder of the day to allow repairs to take place. These works will also continue overnight.

Please be aware that although the east (right) bore remains open for traffic, we are advising road users intending on using the Dartford Tunnels this afternoon/evening to expect very long delays and heavy congestion whilst the left bore remains closed.

Delays are currently at 2 hours, with 8 miles of congestion.

If this closure impacts on your planned route, please allow extra journey time. Plan ahead, you may wish to re-route or even delay your journey.

Further information is available from National Highways by visiting our www.trafficengland.com website and 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.