A2 lorry fire blocks road after blaze near Bluewater shopping centre
12:20, 09 November 2023
updated: 17:11, 09 November 2023
The A2 has reopened after being blocked by a lorry fire.
Crews worked to clear debris and ensure the fire was fully out following the blaze on the London-bound carriageway between Northfleet and the Bean Interchange which started just before midday.
One lane remained closed for a number of hours and motorists were being advised to check for traffic updates before travelling towards the affected area.
There are no reported injuries and all lanes had reopened as of 5pm.
Long queues built up near Bluewater shopping centre as multiple fire engines dealt with the incident.
National Highways had expected things to be cleared by around 2.30pm but firefighters were still dealing with the smoking vehicle at that time.
There were two miles of congestion and traffic was stationary from the Northfleet and Ebbsfleet turn-off to the B225 Bean turn-off.
Motorist Julie Odgers shared a picture of the queues, adding: “Traffic complete standstill.”
A fire service spokesman said: “We are responding to a lorry fire on the London-bound carriageway, between Northfleet and the Bean Interchange.
“Two fire engines are in attendance and crews wearing breathing apparatus are working to extinguish the blaze with hose reel jets and compressed air foam.
“The road has been closed while emergency services work at the scene.
“Motorists are advised to check for traffic updates before travelling towards the affected area.”
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