A van fire brought traffic to a standstill on the M1 in Leicestershire this afternoon (Wednesday, February 26). All lanes on the northbound carriageway had been closed between Junction 20 ( Lutterworth ) and Junction 21 (Leicester) due to the incident, according to Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service.
Fire crews reported the vehicle was well alight on the hard shoulder. A full closure of the northbound carriageway had been put in place due to smoke.
The southbound carriageway was also affected. A lane had been closed due to smoke.
We are covering this incident live. Updates to follow below.
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Key Events
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All lanes reopen
National Highways has confirmed that all lanes have now reopened on the M1 northbound between Junction 20 (Lutterworth) and Junction 21 (Leicester) after the earlier vehicle fire.
Traffic improving but delays remain
Traffic in the area is now improving, with some delays still reported.
Traffic improving
Traffic in the area is now improving, with delays of 25 minutes reported by traffic monitoring service Inrix.
Surrounding roads affected
The impact of the incident is being felt on nearby routes, including the A5 and A426, as drivers try to avoid the M1. Severe congestion is reported on both roads.
Expected clearance time confirmed
National Highways expects the incident to be cleared between 5.30pm and 5.45pm, with normal traffic conditions returning after 6.30pm.
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Lane closure update
One lane has now re-opened on the affected stretch, leaving 2 of 3 lanes now closed. Traffic monitoring services report 'severe delays' in the area.
Delays building in the area
National Highways warns that stationary traffic is now stretching back several miles. Delays of 60 minutes are being reported in the area.
Fire crews at the scene
Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service has said it is attending the incident. The fire service has not yet confirmed the extent of the blaze or any potential impact on the carriageway.
Southbound lane closure in place
One lane is also closed on the southbound carriageway near the scene due to smoke. Traffic monitoring services report long delays in both directions.
Welcome to our live coverage
Traffic has been brought to a standstill on the M1 northbound between Junction 20 (Lutterworth) and Junction 21 (Leicester) due to a vehicle fire. National Highways has confirmed that all lanes are currently blocked.
