Motorists are experiencing severe disruption this afternoon after a serious road traffic collision forced the closure of a major stretch of the A42 in Leicestershire.
Leicestershire Police confirmed at approximately 1:25 p.m. on Sunday, 21 September, that the southbound carriageway between junctions 11 and 13 had been shut in both directions of travel following a multi-vehicle crash. Drivers heading south are being diverted off the road at junction 12, serving Measham and Ashby-de-la-Zouch.
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Emergency services, including paramedics, firefighters, and an air ambulance, remain at the scene. Witnesses described a heavy concentration of police and rescue crews working around several damaged vehicles, with traffic brought to a standstill along nearby routes.
Traffic monitoring systems have reported long tailbacks, with queues stretching from junction 12 and congestion spilling onto surrounding roads. Officials have urged drivers to avoid the area if possible, seek alternative routes, and allow extra time for their journeys.
A spokesperson for Leicestershire Police said officers are working closely with other agencies to clear the scene and investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision. “We appreciate the patience of everyone caught up in these delays while we make the scene safe and carry out our enquiries,” they added.
At this stage, the extent of any injuries has not been confirmed. Authorities are expected to release further details once emergency operations are complete and the carriageway is ready to reopen.