Drivers across West Sussex are facing major delays after the A27 was closed in both directions between Emsworth and Chichester while emergency services responded to a serious welfare-related incident near Southbourne. The closure affected one of the busiest east-west routes on the south coast, disrupting commuter traffic, school journeys and freight movement through the morning.
Sussex Police were called to the Southbourne area shortly after 6am following concerns for the welfare of a young person. Ambulance crews and highways teams also attended, with both carriageways shut so responders could work safely at the scene.
What drivers need to know
The closure covered the A27 between Emsworth and Chichester, forcing traffic onto surrounding routes including the A259. Vehicles caught inside the closure were being turned around and released in controlled stages to reduce pressure on the carriageway.
National Highways traffic officers assisted with road management while police continued their response. Motorists were told to avoid the area where possible and allow extra time if travelling across West Sussex.
Why delays spread quickly
The A27 carries heavy local and regional traffic, so even a short closure can quickly affect nearby villages and diversion roads. Congestion was reported around Westbourne, Funtington and East Ashling as drivers attempted to avoid the main route.
Welfare-related incidents can also take longer to clear than routine breakdowns because police must first make sure everyone involved is safe before the road can reopen. That means reopening times can change with little notice.
Travel advice and live updates
Drivers should follow official diversion signs rather than relying only on navigation apps, which may send vehicles onto narrow local roads not suited for heavy traffic. Anyone who can delay a non-essential journey should consider doing so until the route is fully clear.
For official live road information, motorists can check National Highways traffic updates. For continuing coverage of this incident, see the latest A27 police incident update.
Motorists are reminded not to use a phone while driving. Check travel updates only when parked safely, and follow instructions from police and traffic officers at the scene.
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