There was traffic chaos on the M25 and by the Dartford Crossing this evening due to two separate incidents.

Both of the Dartford tunnels were closed due to a van fire.

National Highways confirmed the A282 northbound east-bore tunnel was shut due to the incident.

There were long delays of up to 45 minutes on the approach to the Dartford Crossing and approximately five miles of congestion which almost went back to J3 on the M25 J3. All lanes have now reopened.

A Kent Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: “Crews were called to reports of a vehicle alight in the east-bore of the Dartford Tunnel at 4.57pm.

“The occupants of the vehicle were able to evacuate and no injuries were reported. Both tunnels were closed to traffic and the affected tunnel's fire suppression system was activated.

“Crews then proceeded into the tunnel to assess the vehicle's condition but no further firefighting action was required. Our operations were complete at 5.36pm.”

Further delays on the A282 and the M25 anticlockwise were also being caused by a police incident.

Kent Highways confirmed the A282/M25 anticlockwise entry slip from the A2 London bound at Darenth Interchange was also closed due to a police incident.

A spokesman said: “Motorists should expect delays on the approach and allow extra time for their journey.”

It had been reported on Inrix, a traffic data website, that all traffic was being temporarily held due to a crash involving three vehicles.

Kent Police were called to the cars but highways officers responded meaning their patrols were not needed.

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