Repairs continue to M25 following fatal crash

Following yesterday’s fatal incident in which an HGV crossed through the central barrier of the M25 between J26-27, Highways Agency crews have been working through the night to repair the damage.

The crews moved in last night, once traffic levels had reduced, to resurface the damaged stretch of the clockwise carriageway.

Repairs to the central concrete barrier will however take more time and for this reason lane four in each direction is expected to be out of action for a few days. At least 40 metres of the structure will need to be rebuilt – with temporary safety barrier in place until the permanent concrete barrier is fully set and strong enough.

Traffic through the area of roadworks between junctions 26 and 27 will be controlled using the Smart Motorway technology to keep congestion to the minimum possible.

This is likely to be a 40mph speed limit, with the lane closure indicated on gantry and overhead signs. Drivers are reminded of the importance of obeying ‘Red X’ signs to indicate a lane is closed. These signs are set for the safety of all road users and the workforce carrying out repairs as well as to provide emergency access if needed.

Although as many lanes are open as safety allows and repairs are being carried out as quickly as possible drivers are advised to allow extra time for their journey.

Two men have been arrested in connection the accident which left one person dead and several trapped in their vehicles.

The motorway was closed for more than 12 hours in both directions after four lorries and a car crashed near Waltham Abbey, Essex, yesterday morning at about 1.50am

A man, believed to be 39 and from Leicester, died at the scene.

Two men, 33 and 25, were arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.