M25 traffic delays impact early May bank holiday travel

A crash involving a van has caused severe traffic congestion on the M25 clockwise in Surrey, just as millions prepare for the early May bank holiday weekend. Motorists are currently stuck between junction J10 (Guildford) and J11 (Woking), with queues stretching for six miles and delays of around 45 minutes.

As the early May bank holiday approaches, traffic officials predict this will be the busiest weekend on roads in ten years. Approximately 19 million trips are forecasted over the weekend, with today alone dubbed “Frantic Friday” as around 3.7 million people hit the roads.

Current situation:

• Delays of 45 minutes reported due to the accident.
• Queues have extended back towards Heathrow Airport on the anticlockwise carriageway.
• The M25 is experiencing significant disruptions as travel demand peaks.

Sean Kimberlin from RAC noted, “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.” The average price of petrol sits at 157.17 pence per litre, while diesel has reached 189.23 pence.

Predictions for the weekend:

• Saturday is expected to be particularly busy, with an estimated 4 million trips.
• The RAC forecasts that many families will continue their plans despite rising fuel costs.
• The impact of this accident may ripple through the weekend travel plans for many.

National Highways confirmed that Surrey Police are on scene managing the situation. Observers anticipate that traffic conditions may worsen as more travelers join the roads throughout the day.