Major Motorway Shutdown After Early Morning Crash
A significant section of the M4 motorway will remain closed throughout Sunday following a serious collision in the early hours of the morning.
The incident occurred at approximately 2am near Leigh Delamere Services when a black Mercedes vehicle left the eastbound carriageway.
National Highways has implemented a full closure between Junction 18 for Bath and Junction 17 for Chippenham, with no exact timeframe provided for when traffic might return to normal.
Extended Disruption Expected
Transport authorities have warned motorists to expect significant delays continuing into the afternoon and potentially beyond.
The closure is expected to remain in place for the entire day, creating major disruption for Sunday travellers along this key transport corridor.
Drivers are being urged to plan alternative routes and allow substantial additional time for their journeys.
Official Diversion Route Details
National Highways has established a signed diversion route for affected motorists:
Road users should follow the Solid Square diversion symbol displayed on road signs throughout the affected area.
The designated route directs traffic to exit the M4 at Junction 18 and take the third exit onto the A46 south towards Bath.
After approximately three miles, drivers should take the first exit at the Cold Ashton roundabout onto the A420 east towards Chippenham.
Continue on the A420 for about ten miles until reaching Bumpers Farm Roundabout with the A350.
At Bumpers Farm Roundabout, take the first exit onto the A350 northbound towards the M4 and Cirencester, continuing until reaching Junction 17 of the M4.
Emergency services and recovery teams remain at the scene dealing with the aftermath of the collision.
The extended closure reflects the seriousness of the incident and the complexity of recovery operations required to make the carriageway safe again.
