Drivers are facing delays of up to 60 minutes on the M6 after overnight roadworks overran, leaving a stretch of the motorway closed during rush hour.
The northbound carriageway remains shut between J11 Shareshill and J12 Gailey, causing tailbacks that stretch for six miles. Slow traffic is snaking back towards Walsall, while nearby roads including the A460 through Shareshill and the A5 are gridlocked.
Why the road is closed
National Highways said the road could not reopen because overnight works were not completed in time due to "issues with tarmac supply and broken down machinery."
In a statement, National Highways said: "Road remains closed due to overrunning overnight roadworks. Delays building, currently 60 mins and 6 miles of congestion on the approach. Please plan ahead."
Motorists react
One frustrated motorist said on social media: "Wow, these companies should be fined for the disruption they cause." Another said they worried the closure could "drag on all morning and possibly into the afternoon."
Diversions have been put in place for drivers heading north. They are advised to follow the hollow circle symbol at J11 to exit onto the A460 northbound.
