The southbound A42 near Ashby de la Zouch has been shut indefinitely after a lorry spilled a huge load of glass containers, causing significant disruption for drivers and traffic congestion for miles.
National Highways confirmed that the full closure extends from Junction 14 M1 link to Junction 13 at Ashby. Emergency crews are currently on scene clearing the dangerous glass debris, while traffic officers are managing the traffic snarls.
The latest update, issued just after 6pm, indicated that the southbound carriageway remains closed as crews continue their work to clear the mess.
Delays are not limited to the A42. One lane on the northbound side is also blocked, resulting in knock-on delays of approximately 15 minutes on both the M1 and A453 southbound. Congestion is extending towards Ratcliffe-on-Soar, causing frustration for thousands of motorists.
Drivers are advised to follow the Solid Diamond diversion signs to avoid the traffic gridlock. The recommended diversion route is as follows:
Exit A453 southbound at A42/A453 Finger Farm Roundabout, then take the first exit onto A42 south. Stay left and take the free-flow lane onto southbound M1. Continue to Junction 23 on the M1, then leave the motorway. At M1 Junction 23, take the third exit onto A512 westbound. Drive 7.5 miles west on the A512, passing through junctions to reach A42 Junction 13 at Ashby. At A42 Junction 13, take the first exit back onto A42 southbound.
Motorists are urged to adhere to this diversion route and allow extra travel time. Further updates on the cleanup and reopening of the A42 will be provided as the situation develops.
Originally published by ashby-de-la-zouch-due-to-lorry-load-spillage/" rel="canonical noopener">UKNIP.
