All lanes reopened after lengthy closure between J23 (Loughborough) and J22 (Leicester)
All lanes on the M1 southbound in Leicestershire have been reopened following a serious collision on Thursday afternoon that closed the carriageway between J23 (Loughborough) and J22 (Leicester).
National Highways and emergency services attended the scene after a crash at about 4.20pm involving a motorcycle and a van. The incident led to lengthy disruption, with motorists warned to expect delays and to consider alternative routes where possible.
"The M1 in Leicestershire is closed southbound between J23-J22 due to a collision. Emergency services are on scene. There are delays in excess of 60 minutes with six miles of congestion on the approach."
The closure produced significant queues on the approach, with National Highways reporting roughly six miles of congestion and delays exceeding an hour at the height of the disruption. Traffic was diverted using the Hollow Circle diversion route while recovery and scene examination took place.
Practical information for drivers
- Drivers were advised to follow the Hollow Circle diversion: exit at J23 and use the A512 and B591 to rejoin the network near Copt Oak and the A511.
- Those travelling later in the evening were urged to allow extra time as recovery and clearance operations continued.
- If possible, avoid the area until traffic returned to normal to reduce pressure on local roads used as diversions.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Time of collision | Approximately 4.20pm, Thursday 30 July |
| Location | M1 southbound, between J23 (Loughborough) and J22 (Leicester) |
| Reported congestion | About six miles; delays over 60 minutes |
| Vehicles involved | Motorcycle and van |
Local roads around junctions used as diversionary routes can become congested as drivers seek to bypass the motorway closure; police and highways teams typically man key junctions in such events to manage traffic flow. Road users were repeatedly asked to obey temporary signage and the directions of officers at diversion points.
At the time of reopening all lanes were reported to be back in use, but motorists should still expect residual delays while traffic dissipates. Authorities have not published further updates about any injuries sustained; inquiries into the circumstances of the collision remain with the emergency services.
The incident underlines the wider impact that single collisions on major routes can have on county-wide traffic. Commuters and freight operators planning journeys across the county are advised to keep monitoring local traffic updates and National Highways alerts for real-time information.
