Southbound carriageway partially reopened after blaze between Gatwick and Copthorne
The M23 southbound was brought to a standstill this afternoon after a lorry caught fire between Junctions 9 and 10, near Gatwick Airport and Copthorne.
Emergency services were called to the scene at around 2.16pm. A spokesperson for West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said:
“We were called at 2.16pm to a large vehicle fire on the M23 between Junction 9 and 10, Gatwick to Crawley.
Joint Fire Control mobilised three fire engines to the scene.
Upon arrival crews found a lorry well alight.
Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus extinguished the fire using a hose reel and foam.
Lanes 1 and 2 on the M23 currently remain closed and people are being advised to avoid the area.”
Two lanes have now reopened, but long delays remain for southbound drivers heading towards Brighton.
Drivers are urged to check for updates and allow extra time for their journey.
