"Avoid the area": Car "destroyed" in fire on A27 as traffic held and "severe delays" at Chichester bypass
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Traffic is being held on a major dual carriageway as a fire “destroyed” a vehicle.
Motorists are running into difficulties on the A27 this morning. One eye witness said traffic was held eastbound and both lanes were closed heading westbound earlier this morning.
They told The News: “The fire service was there hosing down a destroyed car. It was clear as day. I’m not sure if it was a result of a crash or not, but one car was definitely destroyed.”
A spokesperson for West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service said two fire engines were deployed to the scene at 9.09am due to a small vehicle fire. They are urging motorists to stay away from the scene.
They said: “Upon arrival crews found a car well alight. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus extinguished the fire using hose reels and are working with Sussex Police to make the scene safe. Road closures are in the place on the east and west carriageways between Bognor Road Roundabout and Whyke Roundabout. People are being advised to avoid the area.”
Sussex Police said no injuries have been reported at the scene. The force added: “The A27 Chichester Bypass eastbound, near the Bognor Road Roundabout, is currently closed due to a vehicle fire. Emergency vehicles remain at the scene following the incident earlier today.
“A diversion is in place between the Bognor Road Roundabout and the Whyke Road Roundabout, and we ask motorists to plan alternate routes to avoid the area at this time. We thank the public for your patience and understanding while services work to reopen the carriageway.”
National Highways South East reports that the A27 is closed eastbound between the B2145 and the A259 near Chichester. “Emergency services remain in attendance,” they added.