Lanes closed on M5 after lorry fire

Motorists are being urged to plan ahead and allow extra time following a lorry fire on the M5 in Devon.

The southbound carriageway between junctions 30 (Exeter) and 31 (Torquay, Bodmin/Okehampton) was closed earlier today (December 20) after a lorry carrying hay caught fire just before 10am. 

Emergency services, including police and fire crews, attended the scene to extinguish the blaze.

While the fire has been brought under control, three lanes remain closed on the southbound carriageway to allow the recovery of the burnt-out lorry and its contents.

Only lane four is currently open to traffic.

National Highways has warned that the recovery and clean-up operation could take some time, and drivers are advised to avoid the area if possible or consider alternative routes. Delays of up to 60 minutes have been reported, with approximately four miles of congestion on the approach.

For the latest updates, visit the National Highways website at www.trafficengland.com or follow @HighwaysSWEST on Twitter. 

Real-time information is also available by calling the 24/7 contact centre on 0300 123 5000.