The M5 has been closed in both directions between junctions 9 (Tewkesbury) and 11 (Gloucester) following a serious incident that happened at around 2.40am.
Drivers are being advised to plan their journeys and allow additional time as long delays are to be expected as a result of the closures.
A lorry has crossed from the southbound carriageway over the central reservation and collided with another lorry. Due to the significant barrier damage and diesel spill – which may result in the M5 needing to be resurfaced – it is likely that closures will remain in place throughout today.
National Highways is working hard with the emergency services and its contractors to reopen the M5 as soon as it is safe to do so.
Recovery has arrived on site and once the lorry has been recovered, it is hoped that two lanes on the southbound can be reopened. National Highways inspectors will then be able to fully assess the road surface to determine whether resurfacing is required before the northbound can be safely reopened.
Fully signed diversion routes are in place for northbound traffic following the solid triangle symbol via the A40, A417 and M50 and for southbound traffic following the solid circle symbol via the A438, A38 and A40.
Real-time traffic information for England’s motorways and major A roads is available via the National Highways website (www.trafficengland.com), local and national radio travel bulletins, electronic road signs, mobile apps and via X (formerly Twitter) via HighwaysSWEST.
Drivers are being urged to have a safe T.R.I.P by using a new journey planning checklist, which is based on four key principles:
- Top–up. Fuel, oil and screen wash.
- Rest. Take a rest break every two hours.
- Inspect. Check tyre pressure and tread.
- Prepare. Have a plan for all weather conditions.