Part of the M25 near south east London exits has been closed this morning.

Highways England said at around 9am that the M25 clockwise within junction 3 is now closed and traffic is being diverted.

There are delays of over 60 minutes above the usual travel time on approach, with 8.3 miles of congestion.

Highways England said: "#M25 clockwise within J3 is now closed.

"Traffic is being diverted via the exit and entry slip roads.

"There are delays of over 60 minutes above the usual travel time on approach with 8.3 miles of congestion on approach."

At 7.35am, Highways England said the clockwise route within junction 3 is "in the process" of being closed due to a "carriageway defect".

There was already around three miles of congestion - leading back to junction 2.

Highways England has urged drivers to take care on approach and allow extra time for journeys.

It tweeted: "#M25 clockwise within J3 is in the process of being closed due to a carriageway defect.

"All traffic will be diverted via the exit and entry slip roads.

"There is currently 3 miles of congestion back to J2.

"Please take care on approach and allow extra time for your journey."

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