M23 chaos: Driver arrested after fatal collision as Gatwick Airport issues urgent traffic warning

Motorists are bracing for long delays on the M23 this morning following a "serious" road traffic collision, prompting a warning from Gatwick Airport.

The M23 in Surrey is closed southbound between J8 (near Merstham) and J10 (Crawley) following the accident, which took place shortly before 1am this morning.

Traffic teams almost immediately closed the carriageway at around 1.20am as Sussex Police and South East Coast Ambulance Service attended the scene.

Officers from National Highways were dispatched to support the emergency services and remain on the scene to deal with the congestion.

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The transport organisation warned that Sussex Police were continuing to conduct investigations, given the "serious nature" of the incident.

These will take place throughout the day, while the carriageway is expected to remain closed until at least early afternoon.

Sussex Police have confirmed that a man has been arrested following the fatal collision, with a 65-year-old highways worker being pronounced dead at the scene.

The police force has contacted his next of kin, with Sgt Chris Ambrose adding that his thoughts were with the family.

A 38-year-old man from Croydon has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and drink driving, and remains in custody at this time.

Sgt Ambrose added: "We are fully investigating the circumstances and we ask anyone who witnessed the collision or anyone who has dashcam footage, to come forward.

"The southbound carriageway at Junction 9 is likely to be closed, with diversions, until late morning, and motorists are encouraged to find alternative routes.”

Road users heading to London Gatwick Airport are being advised to allow "plenty of extra time" and to consider alternative routes.

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Posting on social media site X, formerly known as Twitter, London Gatwick Airport issued a warning to travellers heading to the hub.

It wrote: "Anyone driving to London Gatwick this morning (8 July) is advised to leave more time for their journey due to a serious road traffic collision.

"The M23 in Surrey is closed southbound between J8 (near Merstham) and J10 (Crawley)."

National Highways has outlined a new diversion route for motorists to follow near the M23 this morning.

Road users are advised to follow the hollow diamond diversion symbol on road signs

• Exit the M25 at J6 and take the A22 southbound towards Eastbourne
• Remain on the A22 for approximately nine miles, passing through South Godstone and Blindley Heath, to reach the junction with the A264 at Felbridge
• At the traffic lights with the A264, turn right towards Crawley/Gatwick Airport
• Remain on the A264 for approximately five miles, passing Copthorne, to reach J10 of the M23 to continue your journey

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