Police have given a statement on a serious road collision that has closed part of a motorway.
A serious single-car collision occurred around 5am this morning on the M23, near Gatwick Airport.
As a result, the M23 northbound was closed between Junctions 9 and 10, causing gridlock and long delays.
At the time of writing, the M23 northbound is still closed, with National Highways saying the road could remain closed for several hours.
Sussex Police said that a car carrying three passengers collided with a tree and the motorway’s central reservation.
Follow our live coverage here: Live updates as M23 closed after crash near Gatwick Airport | The Argus
The crash is causing long delays (Image: National Highways)
A spokesperson for Sussex Police said: “Police are investigating a serious single vehicle collision that happened between junctions nine and 10 on the M23 just after 5am on Thursday, April 2.
“Emergency services responded after a car, carrying two men and a woman and travelling north, was in collision with the central reservation and a tree.
“We appreciate your patience and understanding as emergency services remain at the scene.
“The northbound carriageway will be closed for a number of hours while the investigation continues.
“Police are appealing for witnesses, and anyone with dashcam footage, to email collision.appeal@sussex.police.uk, quoting serial Operation Dorset.”
NCP car park saved from closure after new company steps in
NCP car park saved from closure after new company steps in
Live updates – motorway collision causing traffic chaos ahead of Easter rush
Live updates – motorway collision causing traffic chaos ahead of Easter rush
Woman feels ‘robbed’ after receiving 55p refund for Shein dress
Woman feels ‘robbed’ after receiving 55p refund for Shein dress
West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service (WSFRS) also attended, and are urging drivers to avoid the area.
A spokesperson for WSFRS said: “The M23 northbound is currently closed between Junction 10 for Crawley and Junction 9 for Gatwick Airport following a road traffic collision involving one vehicle.
“Joint Fire Control was alerted at 5.06am and mobilised two fire engines and a heavy rescue tender to the scene.
“The road is expected to remain closed for some time.
“Drivers are urged to avoid the area, and those heading to Gatwick Airport should use alternative routes.