M23 Closure Near Gatwick Airport: Major Travel Disruption Impacts Thousands of Travelers

Critical Transportation Link Affected

The M23, a crucial motorway linking Brighton to London that passes by the M25 and Gatwick Airport, is experiencing significant disruption.

Current Situation

The M23 southbound closure near Gatwick Airport is causing widespread disruption across the region. While northbound lanes have reopened, the southbound closure remains in effect, leaving motorists uncertain about their travel plans.

The closure has led to severe disruptions not only on the motorway itself but also on surrounding roads, including the A23 and other local routes leading to Gatwick Airport. Traffic congestion has become a major issue, with drivers encountering bottlenecks on alternative routes.

Impact on Airport Travel

The closure has significantly impacted those traveling to Gatwick Airport, with many passengers concerned about missing their flights. As one of the UK’s busiest airports, Gatwick relies heavily on the M23 as a major access point. Travelers have reported spending hours stuck in traffic or unable to proceed to their destinations.

Official Response

National Highways and Surrey Police are actively managing the incident, though there is no clear timeline for the reopening of the affected section of the motorway. Motorists are being urged to stay informed, be patient, and consider alternative routes to minimize delays.

Safety Incident and Investigation

The closure was initiated at approximately 6 a.m. on September 10 when Surrey Police responded to a “concern for safety” incident on the M23 between Junctions 8 and 9. While the exact cause has not been disclosed, the police are handling the situation in collaboration with National Highways, though details about the nature of the incident remain confidential.

Travel Advice

Travelers are strongly advised to allow extra time for their journeys and monitor official channels for the latest traffic updates.