A stretch of the M4 eastbound ground to a halt this morning following a serious single-vehicle collision near Leigh Delamere Services. The impact was significant enough to necessitate a full carriageway closure, immediately triggering a complex emergency response.
Wiltshire Police, alongside Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service and South West Ambulance Service, converged on the scene, working swiftly to assess the situation and provide necessary assistance. National Highways Traffic Officers were also deployed, focusing on managing the rapidly building traffic congestion.
The closure wasn’t simply a matter of stopping vehicles; a carefully orchestrated plan was put into action to safely turn and release those already caught within the affected zone. This “rearward relief” operation aimed to minimize disruption while emergency crews worked.
Authorities cautioned that the closure was expected to last well into the afternoon, a testament to the severity of the incident and the thoroughness of the ongoing investigation. The sheer length of time underscored the complexity of clearing the scene and ensuring the road’s safety.
Motorists were directed to follow diversion routes clearly marked with solid square symbols. The route began at Bumpers Farm Roundabout, guiding drivers north on the A350 towards the M4 and Cirencester.
The diversion continued with an exit at Junction 17 of the M4, then a shift south on the A46 towards Bath. After approximately three miles, drivers were directed onto the A420 east towards Chippenham, eventually looping back to Bumpers Farm Roundabout.
The extended diversion, while necessary, added considerable time to journeys, impacting commuters and long-distance travelers alike. The focus remained on providing a safe, albeit lengthy, alternative route around the affected area.
