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Long delays after lorry fire closes M5

Bea SwallowWest of England
News imageNational Highways A screenshot from the motorway camera showing the southbound carriageway completely clear of cars, with an emergency vehicle visible in the distance. On the right, cars and lorries are driving down the northbound carriageway. National Highways
All three lanes on the southbound carriageway are closed whilst vehicle recovery takes place

Commuters face long delays after a lorry carrying pallets caught fire on a motorway.

The M5 southbound in Gloucestershire is closed between Junction 13 (Stroud) and Junction 14 (Thornbury). A National Highways spokesperson confirmed the HGV's load is not believed to be hazardous.

Traffic monitoring site INRIX is reporting miles of congestion, with queues stretching back to Junction 12 (Quedgeley). There are also lengthy queues along the A38, which is being used as a diversion route.

The fire has now been extinguished and recovery is under way, according to National Highways. The incident has been ongoing since about 02:00 GMT.

A spokesperson added: "Once the fire service have completed their operations, the road surface will need to be inspected to ensure it is safe for traffic.

"National Highways are liaising closely with the fire service to reopen lanes at the earliest safe opportunity.

"Drivers are advised to allow extra time and take care on approach."

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There is a diversion in place via the A38 from Whitminster to Falfield to rejoin at J14.

Gloucestershire Constabulary and Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service have been contacted for comment.

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