Motorists are being warned of traffic chaos on a major motorway route this morning amid a large HGV fire which could cause chaos for the coming hours.
The latest update from National Highways: East Midlands states that one lane has re-opened on the M1 northbound between J29 Chesterfield and J29a Markham Vale.
The National Highways website states that the situation remains ongoing with forecasts stating that traffic conditions will not return to normal until almost midday.
Only one lane remains closed as a result of the ongoing HGV fire as the police and fire service continue to clear the scene.
The National Highways website shows the extent of the congestion
NATIONAL HIGHWAYS
It warned that drivers can expect approximately six miles of congestion, adding around an hour to normal journey times.
National Highways will continue to keep motorists updated on social media, with delays potentially lasting hours.
Traffic monitoring service Inrix said: "Long delays and three lanes closed due to lorry fire on M1 Northbound from J29 A617 (Chesterfield / Mansfield) to J29A A6192 Erin Road (Markham Vale / Bolsover)."
The fire was first reported to Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service at around 7am this morning.
Only one lane now remains closed to allow for emergency services to recover any pieces of debris and ensure the road is clear.
National Highways reiterated how six miles of congestion remains, adding around an hour of delays to normal journeys.
Normal traffic conditions are not expected to resume until around 11.30am or 11.45am, based on current estimates.
Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that it had crews from Chesterfield, Staveley, Bolsover and Buxton attending the fire.
Other crews from Nottinghamshire Fire Service are also in attendance to help tackle the blaze and assess the situation.
Drivers on the M1 were also hit with long delays last week following a police incident after a death on the road between J22 and J21a in Leicestershire.
National Highways reported that officers were in attendance assisting with traffic management, while drivers were advised to advised to take alternative routes.
Speaking at the time, Leicestershire Police said: “Officers are in the early stage of their investigation and are looking to speak to anyone who may have witnessed the incident.
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The average speed on the road is just 10mph
NATIONAL HIGHWAYS
“Anyone who was driving past junction 22 of the M1 is also asked to check their dash cam for any footage that may assist with the investigation.”
