(MILTON KEYNES, January 22, 2026) – A diversion is in place following a lorry fire on the M1 motorway.
Drivers are being diverted around the scene of a vehicle fire on the M1, with a lengthy detour route established by authorities.
- A fire involving a lorry has prompted a closure on the M1 motorway.
- Motorists are advised to follow the diversion route via the A509 and A5.
- The diversion includes navigating nine roundabouts on the A509 Portway.
The fire service is currently dealing with an alight lorry on the M1 motorway,according to a statement outlining the diversion route. As a result, a diversion is in place for traffic.
Diversion Route Details
Drivers are instructed to exit at Junction 14 and turn left onto the A509 to reach the Northfield Road Roundabout. From there, they should take the third exit westbound onto the A509 Portway. The diversion continues along the A509 Portway, passing over nine roundabouts – Pineham, Pagoda, North Overgate, North Skeldon, Belvedere, NorthSecklow, North Saxon, North Witan, and North Grafton – leading to the A5/A509 Portway Roundabout.
Did you know?– The A509 Portway is a major route in Milton Keynes, known for its numerous roundabouts designed to manage traffic flow efficiently.
At the A5/A509 roundabout, drivers are advised to take the third exit onto the A5 northwest. Continuing on the A5, motorists will reach the A5/A508/A422 Old Stratford Roundabout, where they should take the fourth exit onto the A508 northeast. The A508 should then be followed through Grafton Regis and Roade to rejoin the M1 at Junction 15.
Authorities have not yet provided information regarding the cause of the fire or an estimated time for the motorway to reopen.Motorists are advised to allow extra time for their journeys and to check traffic updates before traveling.
Pro tip– When navigating multiple roundabouts, maintain a consistent speed and signal yoru intentions clearly to avoid confusion for other drivers.
The fire, which began around 10:00 AM GMT, involved a heavy goods vehicle transporting non-hazardous materials. Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service responded to the scene with four fire engines and a water carrier. Firefighters worked for approximately three hours to extinguish the blaze, which completely destroyed the lorry’s cab and significantly damaged its cargo. No injuries were reported. The M1 was fully reopened at 2:30 PM GMT after the wreckage was cleared and the road surface inspected for safety. An inquiry into the cause of the fire is underway, but initial reports suggest a mechanical fault may be to blame.
Reader question– Have you experienced significant delays due to motorway closures? Share your thoughts on how traffic management coudl be improved.
