Motorists travelling on the M5 have faced significant delays following a series of incidents, including a lorry crash near Weston-super-Mare and obstructions further south. A slip road on the M5 southbound near junction 21, close to Weston-super-Mare, reopened after an overturned lorry caused substantial disruption on Monday afternoon.
Avon and Somerset Police were called to the crash at 13:10 BST on Monday. The lorry driver sustained injuries, though these were not believed to be serious, according to BBC reports. The incident led to delays of well over an hour and approximately six miles of congestion before traffic cleared later that evening.
Further M5 Disruptions and Warnings
Beyond Monday’s incident, drivers have been warned of further M5 traffic delays due to a range of issues. On Tuesday morning, heavy delays were reported on the M5 northbound near junction 23 at Bridgwater following an incident involving ‘debris’ in the road causing an obstruction, as detailed by the Weston Mercury. Police also cautioned drivers to avoid parts of the M5 and surrounding roads today due to the movement of a huge abnormal load through the region, which is expected to cause additional delays.
Implications for Travel in the Region
These ongoing and recent incidents on the M5 highlight the potential for widespread disruption on major routes. For those travelling from Oxfordshire towards the South West, or vice versa, monitoring traffic conditions remains crucial. Such events can significantly impact travel times, similar to how local traffic management schemes, such as the Jericho Low Traffic Neighbourhood Review, influence local journeys within Oxford.
Frequently Asked Questions about M5 Traffic Delays
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When did the M5 lorry crash near Weston-super-Mare occur?
The crash on the M5 southbound junction 21 slip road near Weston-super-Mare occurred at 13:10 BST on Monday.
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What caused the M5 northbound delays near Bridgwater?
Heavy delays on the M5 northbound near junction 23 at Bridgwater were caused by an incident involving ‘debris’ in the road, creating an obstruction.
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Are there other warnings for M5 drivers?
Police have warned of further delays on the M5 and surrounding roads due to a huge abnormal load moving through the region.