The M5 highway was shut down following a collision between a motorcycle and a lorry. This incident caused significant traffic congestion and blockages on nearby roads. The closure affected both northbound and southbound lanes near Churchdown, between Gloucester and Cheltenham, leading to extensive delays lasting for hours.
After the collision occurred around 3.25 pm, both carriageways have since been reopened to traffic. The disruptions resulted in substantial delays for motorists traveling in both directions along the motorway.
Gloucestershire Constabulary provided details on the incident, stating that the southbound lane at junction 11 was closed due to a serious crash involving two vehicles. Emergency services, including an air ambulance, were dispatched to the scene. The police advised drivers to seek alternative routes to avoid the affected area.
A motorcyclist sustained severe injuries following the collision with a lorry on the M5 near junction 11. The injured rider was airlifted to Bristol’s Southmead Hospital for treatment. Witnesses observed people standing outside their vehicles as emergency responders managed the situation.
Diversions were set up for both northbound and southbound traffic on the M5 after the earlier collision. National Highways indicated that the road closure would persist for an extended period, with specific details undisclosed. Drivers heading southbound were directed to exit at junction 11 for Gloucester and the Golden Valley Bypass, while northbound traffic was advised to use junction 11A for Gloucester and Cirencester.
A National Highways spokesperson confirmed the closure of the M5 in both directions due to the serious lorry and motorcycle collision. Authorities were on-site to manage the situation, with northbound traffic halted to facilitate the arrival of emergency services. Email alerts for major news stories were also offered.