Significant delays were first reported on the A27 eastbound in the Worthing and Lancing areas on Tuesday evening (August 27) – and this has continued throughout the week.
Freelance photographer Eddie Mitchell shared photos of the long queues, writing: “Avoid A27 Worthing to Sompting.”
According to National Highways – which is responsible for the road – a traffic light was damaged on the eastbound carriageway between Worthing and Sompting after a collision on Monday.
"For safety reasons a section of lane two will remain closed until the light can be replaced,” a spokesperson said on Friday (August 30).
“We understand the congestion this causes but it would not be safe to reopen lane two as a large vehicle could obscure the remaining traffic light and a collision could occur.
“Safety remains our priority and every effort is being made to carry out this work as soon as possible. We apologise for the impact this has on those living and working locally and continue to advise people travelling through the section to allow additional time for their journey.”
National Highways said ‘all avenues’ to resolve this issue ‘have been considered’.
A temporary traffic light is ‘not suitable’ to be used at this location, the government agency said.
Sussex Traffic Watch reported on X (formerly Twitter): “Queuing traffic from Lyons Farm lights in Worthing through to the Hillbarn lights [in] Lancing. [This is as a result of] roadworks with temporary lane closures due to traffic light damage.”
According to AA Traffic News, one lane is closed ‘due to construction’ on A27 Upper Brighton Road eastbound at Busticle Lane (Hilllbarn traffic lights).
1. A27 traffic delays
Freelance photographer Eddie Mitchell shared photos of the long queues, writing: “Avoid A27 Worthing to Sompting.” Photo: Eddie Mitchell
2. A27 delays
Freelance photographer Eddie Mitchell shared photos of the long queues, writing: “Avoid A27 Worthing to Sompting.” Photo: Eddie Mitchell