M11 Shutdown: Lorry Blaze Sparks Major Chaos Near Stansted
The M11 motorway is in chaos after a lorry fire forced Highways England to shut down both southbound and northbound carriageways. The blaze, sparked by exploding aerosol cans, broke out between junctions 8 and 10, snarling traffic for miles.
Full Closures and Major Delays
- Southbound lanes closed from J10 to J8
- Northbound lanes closed between J8 and J9
- J9 slip road from the A11 also shut
Highways England warned: “Please avoid the area at all costs as this will be closed for some time.” The delays also affect traffic heading towards Stansted Airport and nearby areas.
Essex Police at the Scene
Essex Police are on site, urging motorists to find alternative routes. On Twitter they confirmed: “Officers will be closing the M11 on both carriageways between Junctions 8 and 9 and the on-slip for the A11.”
A police spokesman added: “Thank you to drivers stuck in stationary traffic for your patience. We are trying to turn around vehicles where possible.”
When Will the M11 Reopen?
Emergency crews from Essex County Fire and Rescue Service have now brought the blaze under control. Thankfully, no serious injuries have been reported.
However, police warn the northbound carriageway is unlikely to reopen before midnight, while the southbound side remains closed until at least 8am tomorrow due to necessary repairs.
If you’re travelling tonight or early tomorrow, plan to avoid the M11 and seek alternate routes to dodge the misery.
