Emergency overnight resurfacing works have forced the complete closure of a critical section of the M1 motorway following a serious multi-vehicle collision. National Highways has confirmed that the northbound carriageway between Junction 14 at Milton Keynes and Junction 15 for Northampton will remain shut throughout the night to address extensive damage caused by a substantial diesel spillage.
Three-Vehicle Incident Triggers Major Contamination
The closure was necessitated by a crash occurring at approximately 1:45 PM on Tuesday, February 24th. The incident involved two heavy goods vehicles and a van. While all vehicles were successfully recovered by Tuesday afternoon, the collision resulted in a large-scale diesel leak that contaminated three full lanes of the motorway.
This contamination caused significant deterioration to the road surface, requiring immediate and comprehensive repairs. Contractors assessed the scene and determined that the scale of the damage mandated a full overnight closure to allow crews to work safely and effectively.
Diversion Route and Travel Advice
Traffic is being diverted via a signed route following a hollow diamond symbol. Motorists are instructed to exit at Junction 14, turning left onto the A509. The diversion continues westbound on the A509 Portway, passing a series of nine roundabouts before reaching the A5/A509 Portway Roundabout.
From there, drivers should take the third exit onto the A5 northwest, continuing to the Old Stratford Roundabout. The final leg involves taking the fourth exit onto the A508 northeast, proceeding through Grafton Regis and Roade to re-join the M1 at Junction 15.
National Highways has strongly advised all road users to follow this official diversion and to allow considerable extra time for their journeys. The authority noted that while delays were currently low, they are likely to increase on approaches to the closure and along the diversion routes.
Uncertain Timeline for Reopening
Officials have not provided an estimated time for the motorway to reopen. The duration of the necessary repairs and the subsequent curing time for the new road surface remain uncertain. A spokesperson for National Highways stated that the road is expected to stay closed for the entirety of the night.
The agency is urging drivers to plan ahead, consider rerouting, or potentially delay their travel plans if this closure affects their intended route. The priority is to complete the emergency resurfacing to ensure the long-term safety and integrity of this vital transport corridor.
This incident on the M1 coincides with another major closure on the M25, where both directions are shut between Junctions 27 and 28 near Brentwood. That closure is for emergency works after a lorry struck overhead power cables, causing significant infrastructure damage and a local power outage, requiring specialist engineering teams.
