Traffic on the M1 southbound has been disrupted after a large fire in a field next to the motorway prompted the closure of two lanes between junction 27 (Hucknall) and junction 26 (Nottingham).
Emergency services at the scene
Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service attended the blaze and crews remained on site to extinguish and "dampen down" the affected area. National Highways confirmed lanes 1 and 2 of the four-lane carriageway were closed while firefighters worked.
"Lanes 1 and 2 (of 4) remain closed on the M1 between J27 (Hucknall) and J26 (Nottingham) following a large fire. Fire services remain on scene to continue dampening down."
Planned diversion and travel advice
National Highways has put a signed hollow square diversion in place. Drivers affected by the closure are being asked to follow the diversion signs and allow extra journey time. The authority also advised drivers who can, to re-route or delay journeys until the scene is clear.
- Exit M1 southbound at junction 28
- Join the A38 westbound and continue for just under 6 miles towards Ripley
- At the A610 Hartshay Interchange at Ripley, turn left on to the A610
- Continue south‑easterly around Ripley, through Codnor, then rejoin the M1 at junction 26
National Highways said its 24/7 contact centre can provide up-to-the-minute information on 0300 123 5000. At the time of the latest update, the agency also reported there were "no delays on the approach," though lanes remained closed while damping down continued.
What motorists should know
The closure affects traffic running into Nottingham from the north on the M1 and is likely to increase journey times for commuters and freight using this corridor. Motorists should consider the following practical steps:
- Allow additional journey time if travelling through the affected stretch
- Follow the signed hollow square diversion rather than attempting alternative unofficial routes
- Check live traffic updates from National Highways and local radio before setting off
| Closed stretch | Diversion start | Rejoin |
|---|---|---|
| M1 southbound between J27 (Hucknall) and J26 (Nottingham) | Exit at J28; A38 westbound towards Ripley | Rejoin M1 at J26 via A610 through Ripley and Codnor |
InfoRadar will continue to monitor the situation and publish updates as emergency services and National Highways provide further information.
