A DRIVER has been arrested after his lorry crashed into a bridge on the A12 triggering massive delays on the busy road and in the surrounding area.

James Hore

A DRIVER has been arrested after his lorry crashed into a bridge on the A12 triggering massive delays on the busy road and in the surrounding area.

The south-bound carriageway was closed at Hatfield Peverel after the Leyland Daf tipper struck a bridge, causing structural damage.

Police have said there is severe congestion in the area because traffic is being diverted through minor roads.

The road was re-opened at 7.20pm but drivers were still facing 11-mile tailbacks as traffic began to clear.

Engineers carried out an examination of the bridge but motorists are advised to seek alternative routes.

A diversion was put in place on the southbound carriageway following the accident at 12.50pm when the bridge was struck.

A 28-year-old man has been arrested for traffic offences and is currently in police custody.

A spokesman for the Highways Agency said: “There is damage to the underside of the bridge which has been closed pending an inspection by a structural engineer.”

A diversion has been put in place via the B1137 through Hatfield Peverel at junction 20b of the A12 to junction 19 at Boreham.

The Highways Agency has advised road users to allow more time for their journey as considerable delays are expected.