Gridlock and delays as lorry blaze blocks M5 in both directions

A dramatic lorry blaze shut the M5 in both directions and caused misery for rush-hour motorists this evening.

The lorry overturned and burst into flames shortly after 3pm, closing both the north and southbound carriageways at Junction 4 for Lydiate Ash.

The driver escaped with relatively minor injuries but both the cab and trailer of the lorry were completely gutted as firefighters fought the flames from the road and a nearby bridge.

Traffic is now moving past the incident via slip roads, but residual delays were expected throughout the evening as the clean-up continues.

Earlier delays of more than two hours were reported, with traffic backed up as far as Halesowen for southbound drivers and past Junction 4A for northbound drivers.

The M42 was also gridlocked back to Junction 2 as a result.

The southbound carriageway reopened at around 6.30pm, after drivers were initially re-routed past the incident via the exit and entry slip roads, but the northbound carriageway stayed shut until a similar 'up and over' diversion got traffic back moving at 7pm.

Dramatic images showed the lorry on its side with flames tearing into it as thick black smoke billowed into the air.

Drivers were warned to avoid the area as a result, with Highways England warning that resurfacing work could lead to the carriageway staying shut throughout the evening.

Firefighters, police and ambulance crews were all on the scene.

Highways England emergency planning officer Frank Bird said: “We are working closely with the emergency services to assist them while they deal with the incident.

“As the fire is significant, we expect that the carriageway will need a detailed inspection and possible resurfacing work through the evening.”

Follow Highways England on Twitter for the latest updates.