Motorists face significant delays on the M11 southbound following a massive lorry fire that has forced a full carriageway closure between Junction 10 (Duxford) and Junction 8 (Birchanger Green), close to Stansted Airport.
Emergency services from Essex Fire and Rescue along with National Highways Traffic Officers are actively working to extinguish the blaze and clear the wreckage from the scene.
The fire has produced thick smoke and scattered debris across the carriageway, resulting in severe traffic hold-ups. Firefighters are making every effort to control the flames, but no official reopening time for the M11 has been announced yet.
Drivers are strongly advised to avoid the affected area and follow local diversions marked with the hollow triangle symbol to navigate around the closure.
National Highways has issued the following official diversion routes:
For traffic leaving at Junction 10: Exit at Junction 10 and take the third exit at the roundabout onto the A505 westbound towards 123, continuing to Junction 7 of the M11. For Stansted Airport, take the first exit at the roundabout to join the M11 northbound. For the M25 and London, take the second exit to rejoin the M11 southbound.
For traffic coming from the A11: At Stump Cross Interchange, take the third exit at the roundabout crossing the A11. At the next roundabout, take the first exit onto the A1301. Continue to the A505 roundabout near Pampisford. Take the first exit on the A505 westbound to M11 Junction 10. Follow the diversion from Junction 10 to Junction 8 as outlined above.
Authorities urge drivers to plan ahead or avoid the area entirely to prevent further congestion. National Highways and Essex Police have warned against non-essential travel through the affected zone.
Frustration is mounting among commuters caught in the gridlock, with social media users sharing their experiences. One commuter tweeted, “Stuck on the M11 for over an hour—fire crews everywhere. Hope everyone is safe.”
Local businesses near the closure points are also experiencing reduced customer traffic due to the detours.
For ongoing updates, motorists are encouraged to visit the National Highways website or follow their social media channels. Real-time traffic applications like Google Maps can provide the latest congestion information.
For assistance, contact National Highways on 0300 123 5000.
The Sentinel Current will continue to provide updates on this developing situation. Stay tuned for the latest information.
Originally published by UKNIP.
