Dartford Tunnel to Remain Closed for Emergency Repairs
Motorists using the Dartford Tunnel are facing significant delays as emergency repairs are expected to last throughout the day. The northbound lanes have been closed since midday on Friday, January 24, between Junction 1A of the A206, leading to Dartford, and Junction 31 of the A1306, for Lakeside.
The closure is due to a critical issue: a lorry exceeding the permissible height entered the left tunnel and struck essential equipment, causing extensive damage. This equipment is vital for the tunnel's safe operation, and repairs are necessary before traffic can resume.
National Highways has dispatched engineers, contractors, and safety teams to inspect, repair, and test the affected areas, ensuring the west tunnel is safe to reopen. Initially, the route was expected to be closed only for the morning, but an update before 8 am revealed the need for 'extensive' repairs, leading to an extended closure.
Amy Breeze, duty manager at National Highways, acknowledged the disruption and assured commuters that they are working diligently to address the issue and reopen the damaged tunnel as soon as it is safe. The damage spans the tunnel's entire 0.8-mile length, affecting ventilation fans, lighting, CCTV, and the fire suppression system.
Breeze emphasized the priority of safety, stating that the tunnel will remain closed until it can be safely operated. She advised drivers to plan their journeys accordingly, allowing extra time or considering alternative routes.
The consequences of the closure have been felt, with delays of two hours and eight miles of congestion last night. Additionally, a broken-down vehicle on the Dartford Crossing clockwise, between Lakeside and Dartford, contributed to further delays. A collision on the motorway anti-clockwise, between the Swanley Interchange and Darenth Interchange, further exacerbated the situation, causing two lanes to be shut.
For the latest travel and traffic updates, tune in to kmfm.
