Van catches fire on A23 at Hickstead

The southbound carriageway closed earlier today (Wednesday, November 4), due to the incident which happened between the A272 Cowfold Road (Bolney Cross, Bolney) and A2300 (Hickstead).

Sussex Roads Police tweeted earlier this morning: “There’s a van on fire on the A23 at Hickstead that has forced the closure of the southbound carriageway.

“Diversions are being put in place, but please try to avoid the area for the time being if you can.”

A West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service spokesman said: “Joint Fire Control was alerted to reports of a van on fire on the A23 southbound between Bolney and Hickstead at 9.59am this morning.

“Two fire engines from Haywards Heath were mobilised to the scene along with one from Burgess Hill.

“Upon arrival, firefighters wearing breathing apparatus got to work quickly to bring the fire under control, extinguishing it using three hose reels.

“They then used a thermal imaging camera on the vehicle to ensure there were no further signs of fire.”