24 December 2024 , 13:28
367
0
One of the UK’s busiest motorways has been forced to close in part - just one day before Christmas - after a lorry overturned, sparking travel chaos as people rush home for the big day
A major motorway has closed in part, sparking travel chaos just one day before Christmas.
The HGV overturned on the M40 in Oxfordshire. All lanes between junctions 8A and 6 have been closed as a result, causing chaos for those driving home for December 25.
Traffic queues are reportedly going back as far as junction 9. Drivers in the area have been told to expect delays of up to 45 minutes.
The lorry crashed in the early hours of this morning (Image: National Highways)
The crash took place in the early hours on Tuesday morning between junctions 7 and 6, National Highways said. Work to repair the safety barrier damaged in the incident will also have to be carried out. A diversion is in place via the A40.
Shocking images show the overturned lorry hanging precariously over a footpath below the motorway.
Craig Sowden, operations manager for National Highways’ East region, said in a statement: "This collision has left an HGV balancing precariously over a footpath used by members of the public below.
"We have looked at all possible options but the only way to manage this situation safely is to close the carriageway.
“We thank drivers for their patience and would advise them to allow extra time for their journeys.”
National Highways have advised people to allow extra time for any journeys planned in the area ( Image: National Highways)
Road users are advised to follow the Hollow Triangle diversion symbol on road signs. The diversion route leaves the M40 at junction 8a and follows the A40 southbound to the junction with B4009. Drivers can then re-join the M40 at junction 6.
National Highways has advised people to allow extra time for any journeys planned in the area today.
Oxford Bus Company has said its Airline services are following the diversion. The company has warned passengers to expect severe disruption.
Today, Christmas Eve, 3.8million car journeys are expected to take place in the UK. It comes as part of the busiest Christmas getaway on record.