Dartford Crossing QEII lorry crash closure: Bridge reopens

A lorry and car crashed on the QEII bridge around 11am yesterday (July 3) with standstill traffic in both directions of the M25. The bridge reopened around 2am the next morning with traffic moving freely over the crossing again.(Image: Milly Howe) Essex Police says it recognises the "huge" impact this closure had on drivers.

Chief Inspector Stuart Austin said: "The impact this collision has had on the lives of those travelling in the south of the county today has been huge. "I know that it hasn't been easy, or comfortable, and I'd like to thank everyone for their patience while these essential repairs are completed by National Highways.(Image: Your Southend) "We have received a large number of calls from those stuck in this traffic, travelling with children or animals, who have had a very difficult day on our roads.

"We're fully aware of the challenges this has created for them, as it has for our officers responding to emergencies in the south of the county, and we are working hard to maintain our service for everyone in Essex tonight." The bridge was closed for emergency repairs following damage to the road surface and barriers. Although only the southbound Dartford Crossing was closed by the crash, there were delays of two hours in both directions on the M25 either side as traffic from the bridge was diverted through one of the tunnels.

Meanwhile, severe traffic spread through the surrounding area including the A2 and A13.

A woman was taken to hospital with minor injuries after the crash.