The A21 remains closed in both directions between the A2100 at Johns Cross and the A265 at Hurst Green following an incident where an HGV left the carriageway early this morning.
The closure, which is affecting a key route through East Sussex, has caused significant delays for commuters and freight drivers. Recovery teams are on-site working to safely remove the lorry and restore traffic flow.
Details of the Incident
Emergency services were called to the scene around 6:30 AM after reports that a heavy goods vehicle veered off the road. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported. However, due to the size of the lorry and the complexity of the recovery process, the A21 was closed in both directions to ensure the safety of recovery crews and road users.
Diversion Routes in Place
To manage traffic, National Highways has put in place the following diversion routes:
Northbound Diversion:
- Exit the A21 northbound at Baldslow and turn right onto the A28 Westfield Lane.
- Continue on the A28 heading northeast towards Newenden.
- Merge onto the A268 heading west towards Hawkhurst.
- Continue through Hawkhurst towards Flimwell and rejoin the A21 northbound.
Southbound Diversion:
- Exit the A21 southbound at Flimwell and turn left onto the A268 Hawkhurst Road.
- Continue southeast towards Hawkhurst, then onward to Newenden.
- Merge onto the A28 and continue southbound towards Baldslow, before rejoining the A21 southbound.
Travel Advice
Motorists are being advised to allow extra journey time and consider alternative routes where possible. Delays of up to 60 minutes have been reported, particularly around the diversion points.
National Highways has urged drivers to plan ahead and stay updated via:
- Traffic England
- National Highways Regional X (Twitter) feeds
- 24/7 Contact Centre: 0300 123 5000
“We’re working as quickly and safely as possible to reopen the road,” a National Highways spokesperson said. “We thank road users for their patience during this incident.”
