Huge Fuel Spillage Closes A1 Near Peterborough
31 May 2014, 09:54 | Updated: 31 May 2014, 09:58
Northbound A1 between Peterborough and Grantham closed for emergency resurfacing following diesel spill.
Drivers in the East Midlands and East of England are being advised to avoid a section of the northbound A1 between Peterborough and Grantham today (Saturday 31 May) following a diesel fuel spill which has damaged a section of the carriageway just north of Stamford in Lincolnshire.
More than 1,000 litres of diesel was spilled onto the northbound carriageway following an incident south of Great Casterton shortly after 11pm last night. Specialist cleaners had to be deployed to clean up the spill before the carriageway could be inspected for damage. During the inspection, earlier today, it was discovered that about 100 yards of the carriageway was so badly damaged that it needs resurfacing immediately. This will take most of today and the carriageway is unlikely to re-open before 5pm.
The northbound carriageway is closed between the A606 Empingham Road and the B1081 at Great Casterton.
A clearly-signed but long diversion is in place and longer distance drivers are advised to seek alternative routes north. Drivers using the A1 and travelling up to Stamford are being advised to follow the 'Black Circle' symbol signed diversion, via the A606 to Melton Mowbray, then returning to the A1 via the A607 re-joining at Harlaxton Farmers Arms roundabout.
Drivers are advised to check traffic and travel conditions before setting out on journeys and to heed advice on electronic signs.
The Highways Agency provides live traffic information via its website www.highways.gov.uk/traffic, local and national radio travel bulletins, electronic road signs and mobile platforms, such as the iPhone. Local Twitter services are also available at @HAtraffic_emids and @HAtraffic_east.
Providing they can do so safely, road users can also call the Highways Agency Information Line (0300 123 5000) to keep up to date with road conditions.