M25 major disruption after overturned crane smashes central reservation

Part of the M25 has reopened after a 55-tonne crane overturned and crashed over both sides of the carriageway.

The motorway had been shut in both directions at junction 27 with the M11 in Essex, with massive tailbacks of up to 10 miles forming after the HGV crossed from the clockwise carriageway to the other side at 5.30pm on Friday.

Essex Police said no one was seriously injured but the central reservation was damaged and diesel spilled on to the road.

Resurfacing work was carried out overnight and by late morning today, Highways England said: "Lane 3 (of 3) remains closed in both directions on the M25 within J27 #Theydon due to the central reservation barrier damage."

Drivers were warned to avoid the area while highways teams and emergency services worked to repair the damage, with diversions in place.

Highways England also asked that people allow extra time for their journeys.