Live A421 traffic updates today as crash leaves road closed near A6 slip road near Bedford

A major Bedfordshire road is closed following a crash today (Friday, September 1). Emergency services are at the scene on the A421 westbound near Bedford – with the road shut to traffic as a result.

The crash and closure were first reported shortly before 3pm and the closure remained in place as of 9pm. Drivers are being urged to avoid the area, which is close to the A6 slip road.

A National Highways spokesperson said: “The A421 southbound is closed between the A603 and A6 near Cardington, Bedford due to a collision. Bedfordshire are at scene, carrying out accident investigations.

“There are delays of approximately 10 minutes on the approach to this incident, with just under 1 mile of congestion. Traffic is diverted towards Bedford centre – via the A603 and A6.”

A Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “Fire crews from Bedford, Sandy and Kempston are currently in attendance at a road traffic collision on the A421 westbound near to the A6 sliproad. Please avoid the area and find an alternative route as this stretch of road is currently closed.”

A Bedfordshire Police spokesperson said: “The A421 westbound, between the Bedford Road roundabout and the A6 slip road, is currently closed while emergency services tend to a collision in the area. Please find alternative routes to avoid congestion.”

Inrix, the traffic data company, said: “A421 Westbound closed due to accident investigation work from A603 Cardington Road (Cardington Cross, Bedford) to A6 (Elstow Interchange, Elstow). The road remains closed for accident investigation works following an accident involving a car and a lorry. The entry slip road has also been closed. The road has been closed since 14:55.”

CambridgeshireLive will bring you further updates as they become available. Follow our dedicated feed for the latest.