Drivers have been warned to expect delays after a lorry broke down and its trailer became detached, blocking lanes of a major motorway.
The M1 motorway has been closed between Junction 13 (Brogborough) and Junction 12 (Toddington) due to the incident.
Two lanes remain closed as recovery operations continue at the scene with National Highways advising motorists to expect ongoing delays in the area and allow extra travel time for their journeys.
The incident had prompted a part closure of the southbound carriageway after traffic built up to two miles on the approach to Junction 13, with delays continuing to mount during the closure.
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The lorry became detached blocking the road with National Highways needing special equipment to remove it
NATIONAL HIGHWAYS
The lorry's trailer had come to rest sideways across all lanes of the southbound carriageway, requiring specialist recovery assistance. National Highways Traffic Officers are currently attending the scene to manage the incident.
During the closure, motorists have been advised to follow a diversion route marked with a hollow square symbol on road signs.
The alternative route takes drivers from Junction 13 via Bedford Road, the A507 Ridgemont by-pass, through Ridgmont village and along Steppingley Road.
Motorists should then continue through Westoning village on the A5120 before rejoining the M1 at Junction 12.
Drivers are advised to plan ahead and consider alternative routes if the ongoing lane closures affect their journey.
National Highways shared on X: "The M1 southbound has been reopened between J13 (Brogborough) and J12 (Toddington) following an earlier incident involving a broken down lorry. Two lanes remain closed to assist with recovery."
All four lanes of the motorway were previously shut due to the incident which occurred earlier this morning at roughly 9am.
National Highways said the event is expected to clear between 12:30 pm and 12:45.
The motorway is currently operating with two lanes shut
NATIONAL HIGHWAYS
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The motorway has fully reopened with National Highways wishing drivers a safe onward journey.
