Drivers face hours-long delays after huge crash caused 'large spillage of bitumen' on busy road

Drivers are facing long delays on a popular road this afternoon following a huge bitumen spill, prompting emergency services to attend the scene.

The A417 in Gloucestershire is closed southbound between the A436 (near Birdlip) and A419/A429 (near Cirencester) due to a multi-vehicle collision.

The incident occurred shortly before 10.45am this morning and has impacted traffic on the A417 throughout the day.

National Highways has reported that a "large spillage of bitumen" is present across both lanes of the southbound carriageway.

There is reduced capacity on the northbound carriageway, although traffic is able to pass the scene.

The transport organisation reported that emergency services, including Gloucestershire Police, are in attendance.

Real-time traffic maps from National Highways suggest that drivers are currently dealing with delays of around 40 minutes against expected traffic.

The incident between the A436 and the junction with the A419 is expected to clear between 5.45pm and 6pm this evening.

Normal traffic conditions are expected to return at a similar time, although this could be pushed back depending on the recovery.

A spokesperson confirmed that Gloucestershire Police had been called to a collision involving a car and a loose trailer near Elkstone.

It added: "The road is currently blocked between Gloucester and Cirencester while emergency services remain at the scene.

"Those involved in the collision are not believed to have sustained any serious injuries. Motorists are asked to plan their route in advance and avoid the area if possible."

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Anyone who witnessed the incident but was unable to stop and speak to the police is being asked to complete an online form.

National Highways reiterated calls for drivers to allow extra journey time, in addition to rerouting or even delaying their journey.

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