Two separate road traffic collisions have forced the M4 to close in both directions this morning.
Emergency services are in attendance of the serious injury crashes between junctions 17 (Chippenham) and 18 (Bath).
The incidents are believed to have occurred at around 2am, with the motorway expected to remain closed for ‘most of the day’ for collision investigation work and vehicle recovery.
The closure is causing significant traffic issues both on the M4 and in local towns, with the A350 in Chippenham gridlocked.
Listing the diversions, Highways England said: “Westbound road users are advised to follow the solid diamond diversion route on road signs. Exit the M4 at J17 and take the first exit from the roundabout onto the A350 and travel approximately 2.5 miles towards Cepen Park North. At the roundabout take the second exit and follow the A350 through two further roundabouts until reaching the roundabout for the A420. Take the third exit from the roundabout onto the A420, follow the A420 for approximately 10 miles through Giddeahall, The Shoe and Marshfield. At the junction with the A46 take the A46 northbound for approximately 3.5 miles, then take the first exit at the roundabout to re-join the M4 at J18 westbound.
“Eastbound road users are advised to follow the solid square diversion route on road signs. Exit the M4 at J18 and take the A46 southbound for approximately 3.5 miles until reaching the roundabout with the A420. Take the first exit onto the A420 eastbound towards Cepen Park North for approximately 10 miles travelling through Marshfield, The Shoe and Giddeahall. Then take the first exit on the roundabout to follow the A350 north for approximately 3.5 miles. Then take the fourth exit on the roundabout to re-join the M4 eastbound at J17.
“If you’re travelling on the M4 and heading for the South West we recommend you consider using the A34(S) and A303.”
