Drivers are encountering significant delays on the M1 northbound this morning due to a crash in Leicestershire that has forced the closure of the carriageway. The collision occurred between Junction 20 and Junction 21, causing serious disruptions to traffic in the Lutterworth to Leicester area. Emergency services are on the scene, and both lanes northbound are currently shut, with an air ambulance dispatched.
National Highways has revised its expected reopening time for the M1 following the incident. The road is now projected to reopen between 3.15pm and 3.30pm today. This means the closure between Junction 20 and Junction 21 is likely to persist for several more hours than initially anticipated, delaying the return to normal traffic conditions until the same time window.
Motorists affected by the closure have been advised to follow a diversion route indicated by the Hollow Square symbol on road signs. The diversion takes drivers off the M1 northbound at Junction 20, leading them through a series of roundabouts before rejoining the M1 at Junction 21. National Highways warns that the diversion adds significant extra travel time and suggests considering alternative routes or delaying journeys if possible.
The crash occurred after 8am, with all emergency services, including the Air Ambulance and National Highways Traffic Officers, present at the scene. National Highways has confirmed the release of all traffic within the closure but notes that the closure remains in effect while emergency services manage the situation. Motorists are urged to plan ahead and allocate extra time for their journeys.
Traffic congestion in the area has resulted in delays of about 20 minutes, with the road not expected to fully reopen until around 12.30pm to 12.45pm. National Highways reported the temporary holding of traffic at approximately 9.30am to facilitate the closure, emphasizing the need for drivers to exercise caution and allow for additional travel time.
Details regarding the crash specifics, such as the number of vehicles involved or any injuries sustained, have not yet been disclosed.
