A large fire in a field alongside the M1 has led to a full closure of the southbound carriageway in Nottinghamshire, bringing traffic to a halt during Sunday evening.
Where and when
The incident was first reported at around 6.45pm. The closure affects the M1 southbound between J28 (Alfreton) and J26 (Nottingham). Thick smoke was seen blowing across the motorway and at least three fire appliances were on the scene as crews worked to extinguish the blaze.
Traffic management and diversions
National Highways officers are assisting with traffic management and a diversion has been put in place using the hollow square symbol. Drivers have been urged to plan ahead, consider alternative routes or delay journeys where possible.
- Leave the M1 at J28
- Join the A38 westbound and continue for just under six miles towards Ripley
- At the A610 Hartshay Interchange, follow the A610 through Ripley and Codnor
- Rejoin the M1 at J26
| Closure | M1 southbound between J28 (Alfreton) and J26 (Nottingham) |
|---|---|
| Reported | About 6.45pm |
| On-scene | Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service; National Highways Traffic Officers |
"The M1 in Nottinghamshire is closed southbound between J28 (Alfreton) and J26 (Nottingham) due to a fire in a field adjacent to the motorway. Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service are working to extinguish the fire,"
Local impact and context
The M1 is one of the busiest north–south routes in the country, so closures on this stretch quickly cause delays on surrounding roads as traffic diverts. Cameras and traffic-monitoring services showed smoke drifting across the carriageway, prompting the precautionary shutdown. The immediate priority for emergency services is to bring the blaze under control and ensure the safety of drivers and nearby properties.
Recent weeks have seen several large wildfires across the UK, highlighting how quickly open-ground blazes can spread in dry conditions. While the cause of this particular fire has not been confirmed, the scale of smoke and flames was enough to make continued traffic movement unsafe.
Advice for drivers
Motorists planning to travel along the M1 southbound through Nottinghamshire this evening should:
- Allow extra journey time or delay travel where possible
- Follow the signed hollow-square diversion via the A38 and A610
- Check National Highways and local traffic updates before setting off
I will update this report as further information becomes available from Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service and National Highways, including the cause of the fire and any estimated reopening time for the motorway.
