This afternoon, just after 3 pm, emergency services rushed to the scene of a road traffic collision followed by a vehicle fire on King George VI Avenue, near Goldstone Crescent in Hove. The East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service (ESFRS) and Sussex Police were promptly at the scene, leading to the closure of the road between the Nevill Road junction and Devil’s Dyke interchange roundabout. This was necessary to facilitate the recovery of the vehicles involved and to ensure the road was safe for public use again.

The incident significantly impacted traffic, particularly on the A27, as drivers were forced to seek alternative routes due to the closure. The congestion quickly backed up, affecting the flow of traffic in the surrounding areas.

A spokesperson for the ESFRS provided details of the incident: “We were called at 3:06 pm today to reports of a road traffic collision and a subsequent vehicle fire on Goldstone Crescent in Hove. The collision involved a van and an HGV, with the van catching fire as a result.”

To combat the blaze and ensure safety, fire crews employed a hose reel jet, breathing apparatus, and a thermal imaging camera. Additionally, an environmental pack was utilized to manage a diesel spill resulting from the collision.

“Police and ambulance crews were also alerted and attended the scene. We advise the public to avoid the area if possible and seek alternative routes as the area remains congested,” the spokesperson added.

The road has since reopened.