Big delays on M25 as coach catches fire in rush hour
Drivers have been warned of big delays after a coach caught fire on the M25 this morning. The emergency services closed three lanes after the incident just after 8am and people were told to avoid the area if possible with 80 minute delays.
National Highways posted a picture on X which showed numerous fire appliances tackling the fire involving a white coach. One lane of traffic was slowly snaking past but the other three were all closed.
The coach fire happened between junction 8 at Reigate and junction 7 on the anti-clockwise stretch of the M25. National Highways said on Twitter[1]: “Lanes 1, 2and 3 (of 4) are closed on the #M25 anti-clockwise between J8 #Reigate and J7 #M23 due to a coach fire. Emergency services are en route to scene. Delays are beginning to build. Take care when passing the scene and allow extra journey time.”
Inrix, the traffic data company, said: “M25 anticlockwise blocked, stationary traffic due to coach fire from J8 A217 Brighton Road (Reigate) to J7 M23.”
A Surrey Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “We have been called to a coach on fire on the hard should of the M25, anti-clockwise between j7 & j8. We currently have three pumps in attendance, plus water carrier and unimog. The carriageway has been closed while we deal with the incident. Please avoid the area.”
Later National Highways said:” Update - Lanes 3 and 4 are now open past the scene on the #M25 anti-clockwise between #Regiate and J7 # M23 following an earlier coach fire.
“Lanes 1 and 2 (of 4) remain closed for recovery and clean up. There are 80 min delays above normal travel time.”