M3 Northbound Delays Near Lightwater Cause Major Disruption: What Drivers and Travelers Need to Know
Published on
January 13, 2026
Surrey’s M3 motorway is facing significant disruptions following a road traffic collision near Lightwater. The accident, which occurred between junctions 3 (Lightwater / Bagshot) and 2 (M25), has caused a blockage and long queues, significantly impacting both local commuters and travelers. This update covers the latest traffic developments and provides useful information for drivers navigating the area.
The Incident on the M3
The M3 northbound has been blocked after a collision between junction 3 at Lightwater and junction 2, which connects to the M25. The crash caused severe traffic congestion, with the impact spreading back to junction 4 (Frimley / Camberley). Motorists are also experiencing traffic on the A322, extending through Bagshot and past the Swinley Road Gyratory.
The situation has been made worse by an additional accident that occurred in lane one just before junction 3. As a result, traffic continues to build up, and recovery services are en-route to clear the scene. National Highways initially reported delays of up to 60 minutes, but the situation worsened as the day progressed, and now, travelers are facing delays of up to 90 minutes with seven miles of congestion.
Current Traffic Situation and Updates
As of the latest update, National Highways is estimating delays to persist until at least 10:15 am. The road remains partially closed with only one lane open out of the four on the eastbound M3. Emergency services are present at the scene, and recovery efforts are ongoing. While the congestion is most severe between junctions 3 and 2, the knock-on effect has been felt on surrounding routes, including local roads like the A322.
With traffic cameras showing queues across all carriageways, National Highways continues to advise drivers to allow extra time for their journeys, particularly those traveling toward the M25. The authorities have warned that delays could extend further depending on how quickly the recovery process is completed.
Impacts on Business Travel and Tourism
The disruption on the M3 is creating significant delays for both business and leisure travelers. For business travelers heading to London or surrounding areas, the congestion could lead to late arrivals, missed meetings, and disrupted schedules. For tourists heading to popular destinations like Windsor, Hampton Court Palace, or the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this traffic is likely to cause frustration and delay plans.
- Business Travel: For professionals traveling to meetings or conferences, the delay on the M3 could lead to missed appointments. For those who rely on the M3 for timely travel to London or nearby cities, extra planning will be necessary to avoid further disruptions.
- Tourist Travel: For those visiting tourist attractions in the area, it’s important to check real-time traffic updates before setting off. Many tourists pass through Surrey en route to London or other popular attractions, and the congestion may affect sightseeing plans. Delays could significantly alter the time available to explore key landmarks.
Tips for Navigating M3 Delays
To help minimize the impact of the current M3 delays, here are a few essential tips for drivers:
- Check Traffic Updates: Always use traffic apps like Google Maps or Waze before you set out. These apps provide real-time updates and suggest alternate routes to avoid the worst congestion.
- Use Alternative Routes: For drivers traveling to or from London, consider using the A30 or A33 as an alternative route to avoid the traffic build-up on the M3. While these routes may take longer, they can be less congested.
- Leave Early: If you must travel through this area, allow extra time for your journey. With delays lasting up to 90 minutes, it’s important to plan ahead and prepare for the possibility of more congestion.
- Consider Public Transport: For tourists and business travelers, public transport options may offer a more reliable route. Trains from nearby stations like Camberley or Farnborough to London offer a more predictable travel time.
- Stay Informed: National Highways and traffic sites such as Inrix regularly update information on accidents, road closures, and recovery efforts. Keep an eye on these sources to stay informed about the situation and any changes.
Additional Information for Tourists and Travelers
For tourists visiting Surrey, the M3 is a primary route to access attractions like Windsor Castle, the Legoland Windsor Resort, and the picturesque towns surrounding the Surrey Hills. Due to the ongoing disruption, tourists are advised to consider public transport options, especially if planning to visit locations in central London. Major train stations in the area, such as Farnborough and Guildford, offer connections to London, bypassing the road delays entirely.
Visitors who still need to drive should check real-time traffic updates to help navigate around the delays, and consider flexible timing when planning visits to local sights. If possible, consider visiting less congested sites or avoiding peak hours.
Conclusion: Navigating the M3 Delays
As of now, travelers using the M3 northbound should be prepared for up to 90 minutes of delays due to the ongoing road traffic collision near Lightwater. With recovery efforts underway, it’s crucial to check live traffic updates and plan for extended travel times. While the situation is expected to clear by mid-morning, delays may continue for some time.
Business travelers and tourists alike are encouraged to stay informed and explore alternative travel options, including public transport, to mitigate the impact of this traffic disruption. For those who must drive, ensure your route is adjusted accordingly and always allow extra time to avoid stress and frustration.
Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated
