The southbound M1 near Luton has been closed between junctions 11 (Luton) and 11A (Chalton) following a multi-vehicle crash that caused an oil spillage.
The incident occurred at around 8.45pm. National Highways initially closed junctions 11 to 12 but later revised the closure.
HGV Overturned and Oil Spill
According to National Highways, an HGV has overturned. "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," the agency said in an update.
Traffic that was caught within the closure has now been released past the scene via lane 4.
Emergency Services on Scene
Bedfordshire Police and other emergency services remain in attendance. National Highways Traffic Officers are also assisting with traffic management.
The carriageway will remain closed while emergency services complete their response, followed by vehicle recovery, barrier repairs and carriageway clean-up.
Luton Airport, which is only a few miles away, is open as normal. A diversion has been created for motorists as the motorway is expected to be closed for some time.
