Emergency services have closed the M4 westbound between junction 15 (Badbury) and junction 16 (Swindon) after a lorry carrying bales of hay caught fire, causing major disruption on the motorway and surrounding roads.
What has happened
Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said crews were tending to between 10 and 15 tonnes of hay bales that remained alight and charred. There have been no reported injuries.
"No injuries have been reported."
National Highways and Wiltshire Police confirmed the carriageway is closed westbound while firefighters work to extinguish the blaze. Authorities warned that the closure was expected to remain in place until the late afternoon, and that potential emergency repairs to the road surface could lead to some overnight closures afterwards.
Traffic impact and diversions
Severe congestion has built up on both directions of the motorway. National Highways and Wiltshire Police said trapped traffic was being released and that westbound traffic was being diverted off the M4 at junction 15, directed along local roads to rejoin the motorway at junction 16.
- Westbound M4: closed between J15 (Badbury) and J16 (Swindon).
- Eastbound M4: severe congestion reported.
- Drivers are advised to avoid the area and consider alternative routes.
Local effect and advice
The closure will affect commuting and long-distance traffic in and out of Swindon for much of the day. Motorists planning journeys that normally use this section of the M4 should allow significant extra time, follow diversion signs and traffic updates from National Highways, and consider using the A419/A420 corridor or rail services where appropriate.
Residents near the motorway may notice smoke or traffic congestion on local roads used as diversion routes. Emergency services remain at the scene to extinguish the fire and assess the motorway for any damage that would require repairs before reopening.
Incident summary
| Location | Status |
|---|---|
| M4 westbound, between J15 (Badbury) and J16 (Swindon) | Closed while fire crews operate |
| Hay involved | 10–15 tonnes of bales burning/charred |
| Casualties | No injuries reported |
| Expected reopening | Late afternoon; possible overnight works |
InfoRadar will continue to monitor updates from Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, National Highways and Wiltshire Police and will publish further information on any changes to the closure or confirmed repair works.
