Chaos on M1: Christmas Morning Horror Crashes Leave Hundreds Stranded
Early Christmas morning turned into a nightmare for hundreds of drivers stuck on both sides of the M1 after two serious collisions brought traffic to a standstill.
Southbound Smash Involves Three Vehicles
The southbound carriageway in Hertfordshire is completely closed between junction 10 (Luton) and junction 9 (Dunstable) following a serious crash involving three vehicles.
A Highways England spokesman said: “The M1 southbound between J10 and J9 is closed due to a serious collision. The northbound side was also blocked briefly to let the air ambulance attend the scene and will be closed again shortly for the helicopter to leave.”
Hertfordshire Police are leading the emergency response, with all services on site. Clear-up and collision investigations are expected to continue well into the morning, with roads likely reopening around 8am.
Northbound Crash Blocks Route in Bedfordshire
Meanwhile, northbound traffic is also at a halt between junction 11a (Aylesbury) and junction 12 (Flitwick) after a two-vehicle crash.
Bedfordshire Police are handling this incident. The road will remain closed for a lengthy investigation. Drivers caught inside the closure will be turned around back to J11a.
Official Diversions In Place for Both Directions
- Southbound Diversion: Exit at J10 and follow signs with a black square. Traffic will be routed via A1081 north towards Luton, then south to Harpenden. At the B487 roundabout, take the third exit westbound to Redbourn. From the A5183 roundabout, take the third exit northbound back to J9 of the M1.
- Northbound Diversion: Exit at J11a and follow signs with a yellow square. The route goes west on the A5 Northern Dunstable Bypass, then at the next roundabout take the third exit onto the B5120 northbound. Continue through Toddington to rejoin the M1 at J12.
Emergency crews are working hard to clear the wreckage and investigate these crashes. Drivers are urged to avoid the area and expect serious delays.
