Miles of congestion on M1 after crash left lorry hanging precariously off bridge above A14

24 April 2023, 14:22 | Updated: 24 April 2023, 14:32

A lorry was left hanging precariously off a bridge above the A14 after the HGV crashed into a barrier on the M1 in Leicestershire.

The accident occurred shortly before 4.40am on Monday at junction 19 on the southbound carriageway of the motorway at the Catthorpe Interchange.

The driver of the lorry was not injured, police said.

The M1 southbound carriageway at junction 19 is closed, while the A14 running beneath the M1 is shut in both directions.

Link roads from the M6 south onto the the A14 east and the A14 west on the M6 north were also closed.

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Leicestershire Police have advised that drivers look for "alternative routes and avoid the area where possible".

National Highways said the lorry has been recovered and that emergency repairs are taking place.

In an update, Highways England said: "The closures will be in place most of the day due to the nature of the collision and complex recovery work."

The incident has resulted in congestion throughout the area as drivers sought out for different routes.

Diversions have been set up for motorists, who face four miles of congestion on the M1 and delays of around 45 minutes.