Both sides of the M1 running through Luton were closed just after midnight due to a police incident, causing significant disruption for motorists.
Highways first reported the “police incident” at midnight on June 12, closing the motorway between Junction 10 and Junction 11. Some motorists have described being stuck in the midnight traffic for over an hour while emergency services responded.
A traffic sensor on the motorway indicates that both sides of the motorway have been shut following the incident, with cameras showing lengths of the M1 leading to Luton Airport closed to motorists.
This is a live incident; follow below for updates.
Stranded motorists seen stretching legs as jam approaches 5 hours
Motorists stuck all night in M1 jam becoming ‘distressed’ Motorists who have been stuck in the M1 jam for four hours through the night have vented their frustration to Bedfordshire Police on social media. Many have been in their cars since midnight.
One asked: “Could you please update the thousands of motorists stranded on what you intend to do? Many families now becoming distressed and an awful lot of very tired drivers yet absolutely no updates. It’s a disgrace.”
Drivers take to social media to vent frustration after FOUR HOUR traffic jam An ongoing police incident has closed the M1 in both directions, with some motorists stuck on the motorway outside Luton since midnight. Four hours into their mammoth queue, some have taken to social media to ask when they will be released.
Despite promises to start turning around traffic, some in the southbound lane are saying they haven’t seen movement yet. One stuck motorist said: “I’m 1.5 miles away from J11a, looking back towards Toddington and haven’t seen a single turnaround yet.
Another also said: “If only [we were being turned around]! Sat here watching it get lighter and lighter outside.”
M1 Diversions: North and south carriageways closed Motorists are being advised to avoid the area and use alternative routes. Diversions have been set up to redirect traffic away from the closed section of the M1.
Bedfordshire Police: Road will be closed ‘for some time’ Bedfordshire Police have confirmed that the road will be closed for an extended period while they handle the incident. They have urged drivers to remain patient and to follow the diversion signs.
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