Full Breakdown
Lorry Overturn Causes M1 Closures Near East Midlands Airport
By Drooid · · How we work
Incident Overview
Early Friday morning, a lorry overturned onto the central reservation barrier of the M1 in Leicestershire. The accident occurred at about 05:30 BST, prompting National Highways to close the motorway in both directions between junction 24 at Kegworth and junction 23A for East Midlands Airport on the northbound carriageway.
Response by National Highways
National Highways issued an initial alert confirming the northbound closure and announced that specialist recovery units were en route for a “complex recovery operation” expected to continue throughout the morning. An update at 07:10 indicated that the southbound carriageway closure had been adjusted to run between junctions 23A and 23, while the northbound restriction remained unchanged. Drivers were advised to anticipate delays of up to 20 minutes while the recovery work proceeded.
Traffic Impact
The closures affected a key stretch of the M1, a major north-south artery linking the Midlands with the north of England. The agency’s guidance warned motorists of potential queueing and advised alternative routes. The estimated 20-minute delay reflects typical congestion levels for incidents of this scale on the motorway.
Current Situation and Expected Duration
As of the latest update, recovery teams remained on site, and the southbound lane was partially reopened between junctions 23A and 23. The northbound closure persisted, with no definitive end-time announced. Motorists were encouraged to monitor real-time traffic information and follow guidance from National Highways until the operation concluded.