A1 traffic building after ‘large fuel spillage from HGV’ leaves four miles of queues
Police have asked people to avoid the area
16:40, 15 May 2026Updated 18:42, 15 May 2026
View ImageQueuing traffic on the A1 on Friday afternoon, May 15(Image: RSM Photography)
Traffic is building on the A1 this afternoon after a reported fuel spillage.
The incident was first reported shortly after 4pm. It has taken place on the southbound carriageway between the A606 for Stamford and the A6121 for Ketton, according to National Highways.
They said[1]: "Initial reports suggest a large fuel spillage from an HGV. Delays of 45mins, 4 miles of congestion on approach."
Leicestershire Police, who are reported to be dealing with the incident, asked people to avoid the area.
They wrote on Facebook: "**Traffic Update 16:16** The Empingham Road A606 slip road to the A1 Southbound near Stamford is currently closed as is 1 lane of the A1 Southbound at this junction - Please find alternate routes, updates to follow."
Article continues belowInrix traffic monitoring service said: "Long delays[2] and one lane closed due to accident and fuel spillage on A1 Great North Road Southbound between A1 (Rutland Water Turn Off, Stamford) and A43 Kettering Road (Wothorpe / Easton On The Hill Turn Off, Wothorpe)."
A further update was issued by Highways at just before 6pm to say: "Lane 1 (of 2) is closed on the #A1[3] south between #A606[4] #Stamford[5] to #A6121[6] #Ketton[7] due to a fuel spillage from a broken-down HGV.
"@leicspolice[8] remain on scene.
Contractors continue on scene treating the spillage.
Delays of 20mins, 2 miles of congestion on approach."