M1 traffic: Multi-vehicle crash and serious car fire closes motorway as emergency services rush to scene

Emergency services are on the scene dealing with the situation, while traffic officers from National Highways are assisting with the management of the congestion.

Roadside cameras show lengthy queues of traffic, as well as gaps on the right-hand lane for emergency vehicles to get through.

Fire engines and ambulances can be seen near the vehicle fire, as well as vehicles believed to have been involved in the accident.

National Highways has suggested that drivers may want to re-route or delay their journey if they will be impacted by the closure.

A diversion route has also been installed for motorists waiting in the long columns of traffic near the accident.

Traffic is being diverted to follow the hollow circle symbol: -

• Exit the M1 southbound at J15 and take the third exit at the Collingtree Interchange onto the A508 southbound
• Continue on the A508 south for approximately nine miles to the Old Stratford Roundabout
• At the roundabout, take the first exit onto the A5 south
• Remain on the A5 south for approximately five miles to the Portway Roundabout with the A509 and take the first exit onto the A509
• At the next nine roundabouts, take the second exit to continue along the A509
• At the 10th roundabout, the "Northfield Roundabout", take the first exit towards the M1 and re-join at J14

Other long delays can be seen on the A5 southbound between the junctions with the A45 and the A43 near Towcester.

Traffic maps show that vehicles on the road are not moving north of the town, while adjoining roads have slow-moving traffic.