A27 to remain closed between Chichester and Emsworth

The Highways Agency released a statement saying the dual carriageway would stay closed in both directions between Emsworth and Chichester until Tuesday, June 12.

Motorists have been advised to follow diversions along the A259 instead, which has also been experiencing heavy congestion.

The statement released on Monday read: “Road users are advised that the A27 continues to be closed in both directions between Emsworth and Chichester, on the Hampshire and West Sussex border due to flooding, and is not expected to reopen before tomorrow morning.

“Efforts to pump the water away have not been successful so far. The Highways Agency and its contractors are continuing to monitor the situation and are intending to clear the water once the weather conditions have eased. A further assessment will be made early tomorrow morning.

“A clearly signed diversion is in place along the A259.

“There are currently 30 minutes delays on the westbound and 20 minutes on the eastbound carriageway.

“Drivers are advised to plan their journeys before they set out, checking the forecast and traffic conditions, to leave extra time for their journeys if travel conditions are poor, and to delay their journey if the weather becomes severe.

“Drivers are reminded that rain and spray can reduce visibility and when the road is wet it can take up to twice as long to stop so it makes sense to slow down when it’s raining. Surface water may affect motorways and major A roads where heavy rainfall occurs.

“The Highways Agency offers a number of services to help people make decisions about their journeys. Up-to-date information on road conditions on England’s motorways and trunk roads is available on the Agency website at www.highways.gov.uk/traffic or by calling 0300 123 5000. For information on weather conditions, visit the Met Office website www.metoffice.gov.uk or listen to local radio.”