M4 lorry crash: Motorway closed ‘well into evening’ as drivers warned to ‘plan ahead’

The M4 is set to stay closed until "well into the evening" after a lorry overturned on the busy motorway. A closure has been in place since around 9.15am today (October 20) between junctions 18 and 17 on both sides of the road. Emergency services dashed out to the scene after receiving reports of the crash reportedly involving two cars and an overturned lorry.

At present, no information has been given on any injuries that have been sustained in the crash. In an update this afternoon, Wiltshire Police said Bristol-bound carriageway is expected to reopen soon, but the road heading towards London is likely to remain closed for a while longer. The force said on Facebook: "Following the collision on the M4 this morning, a full closure remains in place between junctions 17 and 18.

"We hope to open the westbound carriageway as soon as possible, however the eastbound carriageway will remain closed well into this evening. Please plan your journey ahead if you would normally travel this route. Thank you."

A diversion route remains in place around the crash. Those heading eastbound should exit the M4 at junction 18 before heading for the A46 towards Bath. They should then take the first exit at the A46/A420 roundabout before joining the A420 towards Chippenham.

From here, drivers are told to join the A350 before heading for the M4.

At the A350 roundabout, take the third exit before re-joining the motorway at junction 17.

Those heading westbound should follow this diversion in reverse.