A crash involving a van on the M25 has resulted in severe traffic congestion just as millions prepare for the early May bank holiday weekend. Motorists find themselves stuck in a jam stretching six miles, with delays reaching approximately 45 minutes between junctions J10 (Guildford) and J11 (Woking).
Surrey Police report that the collision has also caused significant backups on the anticlockwise carriageway, with queues extending back towards Heathrow Airport and junction J13. The situation is compounded by expectations that this bank holiday weekend will see around 19 million trips across UK roads, marking the busiest period in a decade.
Key statistics:
- Around 3.7 million people are set to hit the roads today, dubbed ‘Frantic Friday.’
- Saturday is projected to be even busier, with an estimated 4 million trips.
- The average price of petrol stands at 157.17 pence, while diesel averages 189.23 pence.
National Highways has confirmed that their traffic officers are on site managing the situation. They stated, “Surrey Police are now on scene with traffic officers. There are currently delays of 45 minutes and 6 miles of congestion on the approach.” Despite rising fuel prices—which have made driving more expensive—many remain undeterred from their plans.
Sean Kimberlin from the RAC remarked, “Even though fuel prices are uncomfortably high it clearly takes a lot to stop drivers taking to the roads to make the most of a bank holiday weekend.” With millions eager to escape for leisure or family visits, this disruption poses a significant challenge.
The early May bank holiday weekend is expected to be one of the busiest travel periods in recent history. Observers anticipate that these delays will persist throughout the day as more travelers embark on their journeys.