Police have shut a section of the M1 near Luton following a multi-vehicle collision that left an oil spill on the carriageway.
Crash details
The southbound side of the motorway is closed between junctions 11 (Luton) and 11A (Chalton) after the incident, which occurred at around 8.45pm. National Highways initially closed junctions 11 to 12, but later revised the closure.
National Highways reported that an HGV had overturned. An update stated: "One of the HGVs involved has overturned and come to rest on its side. There is also significant damage to the nearside barrier and boundary fencing, along with a substantial oil spillage across most lanes."
Traffic and response
Vehicles trapped within the closure have been released past the scene via lane 4. Bedfordshire Police and other emergency services remain at the scene, along with National Highways Traffic Officers managing traffic.
The carriageway will stay closed while emergency services complete their response, followed by vehicle recovery, barrier repairs, and carriageway cleanup.
Diversion and airport status
The incident occurred a few miles from Luton Airport, which is operating as normal. A diversion route has been set up for motorists, and the motorway is expected to be closed for an extended period.
