Motorists are experiencing significant disruptions on a major highway this morning due to a serious accident causing hazardous chemical leaks. The southbound lanes of the M40 motorway are currently shut down between Oxford and Watlington after a collision involving a car and a tanker occurred at around 7:45 pm on Monday. Emergency services, along with specialized teams, are on-site working to safely manage and clean up a bitumen spill from the damaged tanker, according to a statement from National Highways.
Although no injuries were reported, a large bitumen spill occurred as a result of the collision, leading to the closure of the affected road section. National Highways has provided an update, indicating that the closure is expected to extend into the afternoon. They mentioned that recovery efforts are ongoing, and resurfacing will be necessary due to the damage caused by the incident.
A replacement tanker and recovery crew were dispatched to the scene to address the chemical spill; however, difficulties in transferring the bitumen from the damaged tanker have delayed the recovery operation. Plans are now underway to secure another tanker for the operation. National Highways emphasized that the road will remain closed until recovery is completed and emergency resurfacing can commence.
Motorists are advised to follow traffic diversions as congestion builds up in the affected area. The closure is causing delays of up to 30 minutes, and drivers are encouraged to seek alternative routes or follow designated diversions provided by National Highways. The reopening of the southbound section of the M40 is pending further assessments by specialized crews to ensure the road is safe for travel.