Traffic Alert: M5 drivers warned of two hour delays

2pm Update:

The motorway has now been reopened and delays are easing although there is still residual traffic in the area close to the incident.

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Drivers heading south on the M5 are being warned of delays of up to two hours after a lorry overturned, blocking the carriageway.

The M5 is currently closed southbound between Junction 10 (Cheltenham North) and 11 (Gloucester) to allow for recovery of the vehicle.

Queues are currently stretching back several miles to Junction 8 (the exist for the M50).

Highways England has predicted the road could be reopened around 1.30pm but has warned that normal conditions might not return until around 4.30pm.

A diversion route is operational and drivers heading south will have to exit the motorway at J10 and follow the solid black circle symbol. The diversion will take them eastbound on the A4019 towards Cheltenham. At the junction of the A4013 traffic turns right, heading south to its junction with the A40. Finally, traffic will proceed onto the A40 heading west and return to the M5 at J11.

Nevertheless, drivers have been advised to avoid the area if possible and to allow extra time for their journeys.