Asbestos scare sparks traffic chaos

My Account
Logout

Create an Evening Standard Account

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Welcome! Sign in here

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Forgot your password ?

Registration

* indicates fields that are mandatory

Email *

Password *

Confirm Password *

First name *

Surname *

Postcode *

Country *

Mobile phone number

Username *

Gender *

Year of birth *

When you sign up...

You will have access to all our online competitions, discounted offers and can post comments on our site.

You will also receive The Weekender newsletter sent every Thursday - it’s full of fantastic offers and ideas for the weekend. You can update your email preferences in your account page when you log in.

Other newsletters and emails

Homes & Property Newsletter - Yes I want to receive the weekly email with all the latest news on property in the capital

Occasionally we would also like to send you relevant emails detailing specific offers either from ourselves or carefully selected partners. If you would prefer not to receive these then please tick the appropriate boxes below. We will never pass on your details.

I do not want to receive additional offers and information from the Evening Standard

I do not want to receive additional offers and information sent by Evening Standard on behalf of carefully selected partners

Terms and Conditions

* I have read, understood and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of Evening Standard

Registration

Mail Sent for Registration Confirmation.

A confirmation email has been sent. Please activate your account by clicking on the activation link sent in your mail box.

The northbound carriageway through the tunnel has been closed since 12.30pm on Wednesday after two 20kg bags containing the hazardous substance brown asbestos fell from a van, Transport for London said.

Specialist cleaners worked through the night to clear the asbestos but it is unlikely the route will be reopened until 9am. The southbound tunnel is open as normal.

A Transport for London spokesman said: "Air sampling tests will need to be carried out before the tunnel can be reopened to the public.

"Police are directing northbound traffic off the A2 at the Sun in Sands roundabout up Shooters Hill or across Blackheath.

"Drivers are advised to use the M25 Dartford River Crossing."

He added: "Our priority is obviously securing the tunnel and reopening it for the travelling public but once that's done the hunt will be on for the individual who brought south-east London to a standstill.

"Not only was this driver reckless in failing to secure the load but they also failed to stop at the scene of the potentially very serious incident."